Celebrating the Work of Pacific Northwest Artists of African Descent
In celebration of culture, creativity and community, Highlands Council is partnering with the City of Issaquah and Onyx Fine Arts Collective to host an art exhibition at Blakely Hall in June. The gallery highlights the work of Pacific Northwest artists of African descent.
The “Eyewitness to Greatness” gallery showcase is presented in honor of Juneteenth, the historic holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States.
The exhibition will feature a diverse collection of works by local artists that reflect themes of heritage, resilience and identity, while celebrating the spirit and significance of Juneteenth. Visitors are invited to explore the exhibition during regular Blakey Hall hours from June 1–25.
A special free community reception will take place on Wednesday, June 18, offering an opportunity to meet participating artists, connect with neighbors and celebrate Juneteenth. All are welcome to enjoy an evening of art, conversation and live music by acclaimed Pacific Northwest guitarist and vocalist Michael Powers. Refreshments will be provided.
“Eyewitness to Greatness” will feature the works of 27 local artists, including Earnest Thomas, Jay Taylor, Pamelagrace Beatty, Robert Horton, Di Faria and Byron Stewart.
About Onyx Fine Arts Collective & Gallery
Onyx Fine Arts Collective & Gallery is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to celebrating and showcasing the visual artwork of Pacific Northwest artists of African descent.
The organization was founded in 2005 by Northwest artist Robert Horton and his sister Annie Hudson-McKnight, who serve as co-founders and board members.
They started with an annual exhibition—originally titled the Northwest African American Fine Art Show—that featured seven African American artists at Seattle Artist Gallery in the Pioneer Square district of Seattle. Their vision was to create a professional fine art venue where Northwest artists of African descent could exhibit and sell their work.
From the beginning, the founders hoped others would join the effort and help expand and sustain this platform. That vision has grown into a thriving organization. Adopting the name Onyx Fine Arts Collective, the organization has continued to expand its reach and impact.
Today, Onyx Fine Arts has connected with more than 800 Pacific Northwest artists of African descent through its exhibitions and programming, continuing its mission to support, elevate and promote their work.
Lindsey Pinkston is the executive director of Highlands Council and a Wisteria Park resident.
As published in the spring 2026 issue of Community Connect magazine >>
