What is kwanzaa 2011

Self-taught, she developed an artistic style that is uniquely and recognizably her own. She sold her first painting at age 20 — a commissioned piece for a coworker — which helped launch her artistic career. Her work has been exhibited internationally and has appeared in several United States embassies around the world.

Inspired in part by French Impressionists, she focuses on shapes and overall visual effects, using as many as nine coats of paint to get the colors just right.

It has its origins in celebrations that occurred across the African continent in ancient and modern times. Kwanzaa synthesizes and reinvents these traditions as a contemporary celebration of African-American culture.

Each year, millions of African-Americans gather with friends and family around a table set with the mkeka — a straw mat symbolizing the history of African-Americans. They light seven candles known as the mishumaa saba , and share in a feast that celebrates their common heritage. Kwanzaa is a festive occasion to rejoice in the prospect of health, prosperity and good luck in the coming year, while also recalling the past and its role in future happiness.

Festivities are from 12 p. Maulana Karenga. For information and directions, call For more information go to www. Cultural performances will begin at p. Exhibitions drop icon. Visit drop icon. Learn drop icon. About drop icon. Subscribe Today. Saturday, December 31, 11 am - 4 pm Cost: Free for members, free to the public.

You must RSVP for this workshop. Please arrive 10 minutes before start time. RSVP's will be honored up to 5 minutes before start time with entrance provided on a first come first served basis thereafter. Limited to 30 participants total. Sarno aides, helping him launch the city's official celebration of Kwanzaa. Jeremiah, 11, of Springfield, was one of several dozen young people attending the City Hall ceremony recognizing Kwanzaa, the seven-day holiday that celebrates African-American community, family and culture.

As Sarno stood at the podium, reading a proclamation, Jeremiah stood by his side. At the mayor's invitation, Jeremiah finished the proclamation, winning applause from the crowd and the mayor. The holiday — which runs from Dec.