The Museum of Science of Industry will present a juried exhibit by African-American artists, including high school students, through Feb. 19 as one of several events celebrating Black History Month

Programming began on Jan. 16 with a “Family Day” of collaborative art projects and the art exhibit, which features more than 100 works selected by five jurors.  The exhibit, produced as part of the Museum’s ongoing “Black Creativity” showcase, has been held annually since 1970 and featured the work of teen artists for the past six years.

The exhibit, produced as part of the Museum’s ongoing “Black Creativity” showcase, has been held annually since 1970 and has featured the work of teen artists for the past six years.

Director of Operations and External Affairs at MSI LaTonya Foster noted in a Feb. 2 emailed statement how much joy she feels seeing families attend the Exhibit.

From Jan. 21 through March 4, museumgoers can engage in the Innovation Studio experience, which offers participants an array of science, math and technology problems and resources for creating solutions.  A companion exhibit highlights the achievements of Black inventors and scientists, and a Career Day will be offered for young people on Feb. 25.

MSI’s Director of Science and Integrated Strategies Rabiah Mayas said the Black Creativity program is a series of events that happen year-round, although many of them are scheduled in the winter season around Black History Month.  Black Creativity, originally known as “Black Aesthetics,” began as a private activity that became part of the Museum’s programming when it agreed to host the annual art show in 1970.

According to the MSI website, a major goal of Black Creativity is to give children a chance to develop creativity and helping them focus on innovation.

“We’re excited about being a part of the landscape of opportunities for young people to explore their creativity,” Mayas said.

Assistant Professor of African-American Art at Vanderbilt University Rebecca VanDiver said Black History Month originated as the “brainchild” of Carter G. Woodson who founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History.

“[It is] a celebration of African-Americans in the U.S., and that is of utmost importance in this current age to continue to draw attention to the achievements of African-Americans in all fields, but also to the ongoing struggles that marginalized people face today,” VanDiver said.

Brian Weddington, managing director of theater arts at Henry Hendricks Weddington School for Performing Arts and lecturer at Columbia, said the Black Creativity Program is a way for Chicago’s youth to explore their interests.

“To combine art, culture and science is what’s needed in society,” Weddington said. “What [the kids] will see is ‘Wow, I can do this too.’”