850 GOOD NEWS: ‘The Work of Our Hands’ showcasing the power of black artists

PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - At the Panama City Center for the Arts, a new exhibit is doing more than filling wall space, it’s telling stories of creativity, legacy and healing.

And that’s what makes this story 850 good news.

More than 80 pieces, paintings and drawings-- all mixed media, were created by 13 artists from different generations and backgrounds.

The collection is called “The Work of Our Hands.”

“When the viewer gets to see those pieces, they’ll be able to reflect on life experiences, the struggles, the challenges and the voice that black artists across all generations and cultures have experienced,” said artist and exhibit curator Willie Morris.

Willie Morris curated the exhibit with intention-- not just to show the finished work, but also the discipline it takes to get there.

“Black artists tend to not get recognized for the craft,” said Morris.

So, he decided to change that.

“I said, ‘Hm. It would be a novel idea to get some of my artist friends together-- which is really hard to do-- to curate this thing to really speak to the moment on the heels of black history month,’” said Morris.

For Willie, art has always been part of his story.

“I’ve been drawing since I was a little kid,” said Morris.

Today, his main mediums are graphite and watercolor-- and his subjects come from the soul.

“Soul, kids, playing instruments, or just spiritual context-- those are the pieces I really reflect in my work,” said Morris.

one of his favorites: “Amazing Grace.”

“Holding a bible and just kind of reflecting on the grace that God gives us,” said Morris.

Another piece, he says was inspired by a dream.

“I saw this woman in a dream, and she was just praising the Lord,” said Morris.

Each piece takes up to 60 hours-- a labor of love he hopes viewers can feel.

“I just want them to see and experience the labor of love that has gone into and has been poured into each of the pieces,” said Morris.

Willie says he knows firsthand art can heal.

“Most of the pieces that I create are out of something that I’ve experienced. So, I know if it healed me, I know it can heal them,” said Morris.

From the hands that created it, to the hearts it’s meant to touch-- these artists prove sometimes the most powerful stories are the ones you don’t just see but those you feel.

To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WJHG on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter).

Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Email news@wjhg.com. Please include the article’s headline in your message.

Keep up with all the biggest headlines on the WJHG News app, and check out what’s happening outside using the WJHG Weather app.