News & Updates

Louisville, KY  — Sadiqa Reynolds, President of the  Norton Healthcare Sports and Learning Center, is thrilled to announce the return of the award winning Artists & Afros, an extraordinary fine art show celebrating the intersection of art, culture, and music. After a successful debut in 2024, Artists & Afros 2025 promises an even more spectacular showcase of African American art, culture, and heritage — enhanced with the soulful rhythms of live jazz throughout the weekend. This vibrant two-day event will take place on the following dates and location: Saturday, October 4, and Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 12pm to 6pm each day. The event will take place at the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center, a state-of-the-art facility on the sprawling Louisville Urban League Sports and Learning Complex. The center, conveniently climate-controlled, is located in the historic Russell neighborhood, once known as "Louisville’s Harlem" for its thriving African American business community. The show and art sale will feature paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces by a diverse range of local and nationally recognized artists, all celebrating the rich history, creativity, and contributions of the communities they live, work, and play in. Attendees can meet the artists, learn about their inspirations, and purchase unique works of art. “We are excited to bring back Artists & Afros for a second year — with the magic of live jazz woven into the experience,” said Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center President and Founder, Sadiqa Reynolds. “This event is about celebrating the boldness of Black art and culture, and music deepens that cultural connection. 

Visitors can expect to be immersed in thought-provoking and vibrant art, while enjoying the soulful sounds of jazz performed by talented musicians.” As in its inaugural year, Artists & Afros is intentionally scheduled to coincide with and complement the St. James Art Fair, encouraging art lovers traveling to Louisville to add this event to their itinerary and enjoy a broader range of artistic offerings. The event is presented in partnership with E&S Gallery, America’s oldest and largest African American-owned and operated fine art and custom framing gallery, owned by Walter and Cathy Shannon. It will also feature collaboration with Okike, an artist development platform dedicated to securing resources for Black creatives. “Okike is excited to once again partner in bringing local artists to share their work, gain exposure to a larger market, and connect with collectors,” said Shauntrice Martin, founder of Okike. “Events like Artists & Afros are vital to reducing barriers for entrepreneurs in the historic Russell neighborhood and beyond.” In addition to the visual art and live jazz performances, the weekend will offer an invitation only VIP reception for the juried portion of the weekend, interactive artist talks, and community-centered programming, making Artists & Afros 2025 a must-attend cultural experience in Louisville.

Please visit the Artists & Afros website to register  for a ticket! 

Press Conference Details: 

• What  : Press conference for Artists & Afros art show
• When  : Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 10AM Walter Shannon E&S Gallery Owner & Operator
• Where  : 3029 W Muhammad Ali Blvd, Louisville, KY  40212
• Who  : Open to the media, public, local leaders, and supporters