On Saturday, February 21, 2026, the Mt. Vernon Arts & Cultural Society (MVACS), A.K.A. Mt. Vernon Arts Council did more than host an exhibition; it demonstrated what cultural stewardship looks like in action.
Under the leadership of President Judy Williams, the Society proudly presented the Mt. Vernon OLV 7th Grade Black History Month Artist Showcase, transforming 50 E. Sandford Boulevard into a living classroom where scholarship, artistry, and civic consciousness converged.
This was not a ceremonial nod to Black History Month. It was intentional programming designed to build confidence, critical thinking, and cultural literacy.
At the heart of this showcase was award-winning art instructor Mezaun Arnone, whose disciplined, student-centered approach shaped every piece in the room. Arnone, recently voted Mount Vernon Gold Winner for Art Instructor and Art Lessons and recipient of Platinum Art Valor for Art for Veterans arts lessons, leads her students through a rigorous STREAM curriculum, integrating Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math through project-based learning.
Students are not simply handed materials. They research. They sketch. They engineer structure. They sculpt in clay. They refine their work in acrylic paint. Twice a week, Arnone teaches them how to build with their hands and articulate with their minds.
And during the opening reception, that articulation took center stage.
Each student stood beside their work and explained their historical research, artistic symbolism, and creative process. The spotlight moved intentionally through the lineup:
Luka presented John R. Lewis and the Edmund Pettus Bridge, symbolizing courage under fire and the cost of crossing toward justice.
Maebon honored Jackie Robinson with a sculpted baseball bat, representing both athletic excellence and the weight of integration.
Layla interpreted Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus, capturing the quiet resistance that ignited a national movement.
Morgan constructed Thurgood Marshall’s gavel and base, a reminder that justice is argued, defended, and built.
Savannah created a Fannie Lou Hamer ballot box, democracy sculpted into tangible form.
Melanie honored Pierre Toussaint, highlighting service, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.
Bailey sculpted Sojourner Truth, strength and fearless truth-telling embodied.
Christopher represented Francis Cecil Sumner, one of the first Black psychologists, honoring intellectual leadership and mental health scholarship.
Liam created a symbolic tribute to Gordon B. Hancock, recognizing the power of academic thought and public advocacy.
Amaru painted a portrait of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., capturing both resolve and reflection.
Luke H. interpreted Frederick Douglass’ autobiography, literacy as liberation molded into clay.
Mckenzie sculpted Dorothy M. Day’s Fist of Power, blending faith with activism in a bold, expressive form.
The room held more than artwork. It held research, intention, and voice.
By hosting this showcase, the Mt. Vernon Arts & Cultural Society reaffirmed its role as a cultural anchor in the city, creating platforms where youth scholarship meets public recognition. The Society understands that arts education is not enrichment; it is infrastructure. It shapes how young people see themselves in history and how they imagine their role in the future.
Westchester County Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels concluded the program by thanking each student individually and offering words of encouragement to students and parents alike. His remarks underscored the civic significance of the afternoon, these students were not just participating in an art show; they were practicing public leadership.
What unfolded that day was evidence of what happens when institutional support meets instructional excellence. Through Mezaun Arnone’s leadership and the Mt. Vernon Arts & Cultural Society’s commitment to cultural programming, students were given more than supplies. They were given a stage.
And stages build confidence.
The Mt. Vernon Arts & Cultural Society continues to expand opportunities for youth, artists, veterans, and families throughout the city. Programs like this Black History Month showcase are possible because of community investment and partnership.
Residents interested in supporting future initiatives, attending upcoming events, or volunteering are encouraged to connect with the Mt. Vernon Arts & Cultural Society and become part of the work.
Because when we invest in our cultural institutions, we invest in our children.
And on February 21, Mount Vernon saw what that investment looks like.
The Mt. Vernon Arts & Culture Society (MVACS) is a non-profit organization serving as the arts and culture council for the City of Mount Vernon. The society focuses on supporting local artists, musicians, and writers while promoting community development through creative initiatives. For more information on MVACS, visit their website.
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