30 Years of Momentum at Black Creativity Gala

Year after year, it’s a challenge to decide which facet of the Black Creativity Gala at the Museum of Science and Industry gets the higher marks. If you’ve ever attended, you know what I’m talking about. If not, take my word for it.

What grades higher? The diversity and availability of the food, both hot and cold; the quality and camaraderie of the overwhelmingly professional crowd; the venue itself, with its mix of new and nostalgic exhibits and displays; bar stations galore for those of us who drink socially; or, of course, the commitment to showcasing the best of African Americans in the creative and scientific fields?

Taken together, however, each facet contributes mightily to what is an annual must-attend event. And the 2013 gala was no exception. This year’s 30th gala and exhibit, which focused on African Americans in Innovation, was another must-attend social event worthy of support and praise.

Here’s a quick look at some numbers from this year’s gala and exhibition:

• • 400,000, as in the dollar amount raised to support the Black Creativity program.

• • 700 guests.

• • 100, as in the approximate number of colorful works of art by Black artists from around the country and by local high school students presented in a juried art exhibition that showcases the best in creativity and ingenuity.

• • 7, as in the foot-tapping performance from the group After 7 (and yes, they sound just like their recorded self after all these years).

• • 4 … the number of drinks consumed by one guest-writer who during the evening caught up with more than a few friends, current and former colleagues (and crushes).

• • 3, for the stellar Black Creativity Gala co-chairs: Honorable Anne M. Burke, Merri Dee, and Connie Lindsey

• • 2, as in the number of Black Creativity Advisory Committee co-chairs (Kevin Brookins and Larry Hollins).

• • 1, as in one Black Creativity Gala Chair (Myra Price) and one fundraising chair (Greg Hinton).

• • Priceless, as in the lasting value of the gala’s and exhibition’s commitment to inspiring youth to see and aspire to unlimited possibilities.