YWCA Lancaster celebrated the power of Black creativity on Friday with the grand finale of its third annual Black Artist Waystation initiative.
The event, held at the Ware Center, featured the artistic expression of Evita Colon, RJ Scott, Blake Showers and Brandon Webb as well as a panel discussion featuring the four creatives.
“We’re really excited to celebrate them and their amazing art,” said Isabel Castillo, director of YWCA Lancaster’s Center for Racial & Gender Equity.
The Black Artist Waystation is a competitive grant program. Finalists receive a stipend of $2,500 and receive guidance from local mentors to present their work to the community. The 2024 theme was “revolutionary aesthetics.”
It was a beautiful celebration, Colon said in a Facebook post: “I appreciate the Y for giving me the platform to discuss what we need as Black artists in this community and echoing our voices.”
Besides YWCA Lancaster, support for Black Artist Waystation is provided by the Lancaster County Community Foundation.
“This journey has been one of growth, collaboration, and empowerment,” YWCA Lancaster said. “… The finale was not just a celebration of their artistry, but of their resilience, dedication, and passion.”
