A multi-artist art exhibition exploring the historical value and origin of the term “Black” will open on February 12th at Shungu Gallery in Frederick, Maryland just in time for Black History Month. With much anticipation, Before Black Had A Name, curated by The Village DC co-founder Mahammad Mangum will be ready for visitors in the DMV.

The opening exhibition reception will happen Saturday from 6:00 p.m to 9:00 p.m and is free to the public. Admission to the exhibition is also free.

Before Black Had A Name will present a diverse group of artists based in Los Angeles, Baltimore, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC. The range of their work is from portraiture, forms, digital prints, sculptures, and furniture. The 26-year-old curator challenge viewers to “digest the works while resisting the common practice of labeling the work or artists based on pre-existing conventions.”

Who is Mahammad Mangum?

Mahammad Mangum is a 26-year-old self-taught multi-disciplinary artist and curator from the nation's capital. He is also the co-founder and creative director of The Village DC, a cafe and communal space established in 2018, located in The Union Market District in Washington, DC.

While attending college in Monterey, California, Mahammad gained a passion for film, education, and social justice and created an educational platform called Tekaland. The web platform premieres independent documentaries and editorials for youth audiences. Mangum’s goal is to create more engaging content and use it as an educational tool for young people.

While developing his skills as the creative director of The Village DC, Mahammad dove more into the arts as he began curating exhibitions and events at The Village DC, creating a cultural hub and staple for emerging artists and creatives in the DC area. 

He brings a strong desire to influence culture and humanity through using his unique, innovative background in art and multi-media. Mahammad merges business, community, and creativity to help The Village DC and his many projects reach and impact a broad range of audiences around the world.

How To Attend Before Black Had A Name

Before Black Had A Name will continue through Saturday, March 12th. The exhibition will be open during Shungu Gallery hours, Thursday to Saturday 10:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m.