Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) is hosting a special Juneteenth art exhibition presented by The Art of Four Art Initiative, featuring the work of Black and minority artists whose pieces 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 OLLU’s 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 invites visitors to reflect on history, identity, healing, and artistic expression. Williams said the exhibition was created from the belief that art is memory, resistance, storytelling, and legacy.
The partnership holds special meaning for Williams, whose older brother, Clifton B. Hazlewood Jr., attended OLLU, making the collaboration a tribute to family, education, resilience, and community legacy. As an Afro-Latina, Williams has long championed greater representation and visibility for Black and minority artists through her work as a curator, cultural strategist, and arts advocate.
OLLU President Dr. Abel Chávez said the university is proud to host the exhibition as a reflection of its commitment to civil rights, social justice, and the dignity of every person. The exhibit highlights the enduring impact of Black history and culture while celebrating the transformative power of art in education and community engagement.
The exhibition served as both a cultural and educational experience, inviting visitors to engage with themes of liberation, identity, heritage, and social justice. Through visual storytelling and artistic expression, the exhibit highlighted the importance of preserving and sharing the stories that continue to shape our communities.
A special highlight of this year’s exhibition was a visit from students from Lytle on May 20. During their campus visit, students toured OLLU and explored the exhibit, gaining a deeper understanding of Juneteenth’s historical significance while experiencing the University’s commitment to education, diversity, and community engagement.
The Juneteenth Art Exhibition remains on display through June 30, 2026, in the AT&T Foundation Student Commons on the third floor of OLLU’s Main Building. The exhibit reflects OLLU’s ongoing mission to foster learning, dialogue, and appreciation for the diverse histories and experiences that enrich our society.