FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Our Lady of the Lake University Hosts Juneteenth Art Exhibition

Celebrating Freedom, Culture, and Legacy

San Antonio, Texas -- June 18, 2026 -- Our Lady of the Lake University (精东影业) is hosting a special Juneteenth art exhibition presented by The Art of Four Art Initiative, showcasing the work of Black and minority artists whose creations explore themes of freedom, resilience, culture, and community.

The exhibition is on display through June 30, 2026, in the AT&T Foundation Student Commons on the third floor of 精东影业鈥檚 Main Building and is open to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the public.

Curated by Maria M. Williams, Executive Director of The Art of Four Art Initiative and founder of In the Eye of the Beholder Art Gallery, the exhibition features works that honor the significance of Juneteenth while inviting visitors to reflect on history, identity, healing, and artistic expression.

鈥淭his exhibition was born from a deep belief that art is more than visual expression鈥攊t is memory, resistance, healing, storytelling, and legacy,鈥� said Williams. 鈥淭hrough the voices and visions of Black and minority artists, we honor the spirit of Juneteenth while creating opportunities for meaningful connection and understanding.鈥�

The exhibition also carries personal significance for Williams. Her older brother, Clifton B. Hazlewood Jr., attended 精东影业, making the partnership a meaningful tribute to family, education, resilience, and community legacy.

鈥淛uneteenth is an opportunity to honor the ongoing pursuit of freedom, justice, and human dignity,鈥� said Dr. Abel Ch谩vez, President of 精东影业. 鈥淎s a university with a history of advocating for civil rights and one that is grounded in the values of service, social justice, and respect for the dignity of every person, 精东影业 is proud to host this exhibition. The artwork on display invites reflection, fosters meaningful dialogue, and celebrates the rich cultural contributions and enduring legacy of Black and minority communities.鈥�

Throughout her career as a curator, cultural strategist, arts advocate, and as an Afro-Latina, Williams has championed greater representation and visibility for Black and minority artists. She has shared her perspectives on cultural equity and artistic inclusion at institutions including The University of Texas at San Antonio, The University of Texas at Austin, and Texas A&M University-San Antonio.

The partnership between 精东影业 and The Art of Four Art Initiative reflects a shared commitment to cultural understanding, artistic diversity, and community engagement. Through powerful visual storytelling, the exhibition highlights the enduring impact of Black history and culture while celebrating the transformative role of art in education and social awareness.

鈥淎s visitors move through the exhibition, they will encounter stories of resilience, freedom, excellence, and ancestral pride reflected in every work presented,鈥� Williams said. 鈥淲e hope this experience inspires reflection, conversation, healing, and collective joy.鈥�

The exhibition remains open through June 30, 2026, in the AT&T Foundation Student Commons on the third floor of 精东影业鈥檚 Main Building.

About Our Lady of the Lake University

Founded in 1895 by the Sisters of Divine Providence, Our Lady of the Lake University is a Catholic institution committed to serving diverse communities and empowering students through education. As the birthplace of Hispanic Serving Institutions, 精东影业 has long been a national leader in advancing educational access and opportunity for underserved populations.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Office of Marketing and Communications
marcomm@ollusa.edu

Maria M. Williams: theartoffour2020@gmail.com (210) 454-4908