Explore the importance and resilience of Houston’s Black cultural organizations, their birth and evolution over the years, and their role in today’s social and political climate. On Saturday, August 15, tune in at 3 p.m. for a livestream discussion, moderated by John Guess, chief executive officer for the Houston Museum of African American Culture.

“Black Cultural Organizations in Houston” is the last of five panel discussions in the Saturday series accompanying the exhibition Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power. This talk brings together artist Vicki Meek; Eileen Morris of the Ensemble Theatre; and Harrison Guy of Urban Souls Dance Company.

Meet the Panel

Vicki Meek
The work of nationally recognized artist Vicki Meek can be found in the collections of a number of U.S. museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. She has been a leader in arts administration for more than 40 years.

Eileen Morris
Eileen Morris is the artistic director of Houston’s Ensemble Theatre, one of the largest African American theaters in the world. She is also a board member of the Houston Cinema Arts Society, the Midtown Management District, and the Theatre Communications Group.

Harrison Guy
The artistic director of Urban Souls Dance Company (USDC), Harrison Guy started dancing when he was 8 years old. He trained in New York City at the Alvin Ailey School in New York City and founded USDC after returning to Houston.

John Guess
John Guess serves as chief executive officer for the Houston Museum of African American Culture, founded in 1999 to promote the vibrancy of African and African American culture and art forms. He has also served on the boards of institutions including the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston and the Houston Arts Alliance.

► Tune in on Saturday, August 15, at 3 p.m. for this virtual discussion about Black cultural organizations in Houston. Before or after, experience Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power for yourself. The landmark exhibition is on view through August 30 at the MFAH, the final venue on the three-year tour. Plan ahead for your visit.

This virtual lecture series receives generous funding from Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.