The Bishop Gallery is pleased to present Ekklesia, a compelling new exhibition by acclaimed artist Sophia Victor, thoughtfully curated by Teddy RaShaan Reeves, ph.d, of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. Opening on May 17th, the exhibition draws inspiration from the ancient Greek term ἐκκλησία (pronounced ek-klay-see’-ah), originally describing the assemblies of Athenian democracy and later adopted by early Christians for gatherings of the faithful. Through her latest work, Victor explores the enduring importance of communal spaces within African American traditions, highlighting their cultural, spiritual, and social resonance.

Victor’s evocative and deeply personal exhibition extends this historical lineage into the contemporary African American context, paying homage to the church’s enduring role as sanctuary, community cornerstone, and guardian of cultural legacy. Through a strikingly thoughtful body of new works, Victor creates dynamic spaces for reflection, dialogue, and communal engagement, inviting viewers to contemplate stories shaped by collective faith, resilience, and purposeful existence.

Time: 6:30-9:30 pm EST

Free!

Registration