Black Heritage Gallery Reopens: Celebrating Black History Month with Local Artist Kevin LeMelle

This past year tested many, including Stella Miller, executive director of the Black Heritage Gallery. Despite challenges from the pandemic and two hurricanes, the gallery persevered in procuring and showcasing local artists. Last year, Stella highlighted works created in quarantine, featuring talents like Kevin LeMelle, the first artist spotlighted in our Black History Month series.

“;The pandemic exhibit revealed the incredible talent in Lake Charles and surrounding areas. Though we're not fully reopened yet, I'm excited to virtually showcase my favorite local artists during Black History Month,”; said Stella Miller.

A Lake Charles native, self-taught artist and father of three, Kevin LeMelle crafts works with astonishing detail and masterful shading. Having admired his pieces at the gallery last year, I remain impressed by his skill.

LeMelle shares: "I feel blessed to share our gifts and inspirations to uplift one another. As a first-grader who doodled endlessly, I've evolved into a self-taught artist drawing whatever inspires me. It's an incredible journey of learning and discovery."

Under Mayor Randy Roach's administration, LeMelle received a key to the city for his visionary art. He's also illustrating Dr. Marcus Jackson's book, "Growing Up as a Black Male in America."

Visit Lake Charles will feature more Black Heritage Gallery artists throughout Black History Month.

Damaged by 2020's hurricanes, the gallery rebounds in 2021 with the exhibit “;Obama: An Intimate Portrait with Photographs by Pete Souza,”; from June 4 to July 24 at 1911 Historic City Hall. Sponsored by the Black Heritage Gallery and Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana.

Learn more about the Black Heritage Gallery here or view Kevin LeMelle's works on his Facebook page. Contact him at (626) 806-3553 for interviews, shows, or commissions.