Rooted in Grit, Held in Grace: 30th Anniversary Mavuno Exhibition - Sweetwater Center for the Arts (Due July 31)
Rooted in Grit, Held in Grace: 30th Anniversary Mavuno Exhibition - Sweetwater Center for the Arts
Deadline: July 31st, 2026
For three decades, the Mavuno Festival has celebrated the creativity, leadership, and cultural contributions of Black artists and educators in the Sewickley region. The word Mavuno, meaning harvest in Swahili, reflects the gathering of community, culture, and artistic expression that has grown from seeds planted 30 years ago.
Sweetwater invites Black and BIPOC to reflect on the themes of grit, grace, and gratitude - the qualities that nurture creativity, sustain community, and allow artistic voices to flourish. The exhibition seeks work that explores perseverance, cultural identity, community impact, personal narratives, and the beauty that emerges through challenge and growth.
Grit – perseverance, resilience, and determination in creative practice and in life Grace – beauty, dignity, cultural strength, and artistic excellence Gratitude – honoring community, mentorship, legacy, and those who paved the way
Through a wide range of media and perspectives, Rooted in Grit, Held in Grace celebrates the brilliance, strength, and creativity of artists whose work continues to shape the cultural landscape of our region.
Open to all media, local and regional artists 18+ may submit up to 5 works.