Coming up

UPCOMING EVENTS in Southampton African American Museum

May 17 - July 7

Courtney Minor

Doors Into My Life

Opening Reception May 30th

A New Exhibition at the Southampton African American Museum, featuring the original art of Courtney Minor 

The Southampton African American Museum proudly announces the opening of “Doors Into My Life” by Courtney Minor, a spectacular exhibition that explores the many doorways into the continuous evolution of Courtney’s life.  Through the mediums of self-portraits, tribute, and protest art, Courtney invites visitors to witness her journey of continuous self-discovery.  

The exhibition opens on Friday, May 17, 2025, reception on Friday, May 30th and will be on display through Monday July 7th, providing the opportunity to witness a remarkable collection of original mixed media artworks that serve as Courtney’s deep introspection of looking to the past for answers to today. 
 
“Doors Into My Life” offers audiences a doorway to connect with others through the universal language of art.  These original works from Courtney Minor, stirred by injustices seen throughout the world, her own physical ailments, and her love of history and education are not only manifestations of aesthetic excellence but offer a rich narrative of life being lived.
 
The Southampton African American Museum invites all to join us in exploring the artistic genius of Courtney Minor.  Whether you are simply curious about the exhibition or an art enthusiast, visiting “Doors Into My Life” at the Southampton African American Museum promises to enrich conversations about navigating life.

June 14th

12Pm to 5pm

Annual Juneteenth Celebration

Special guest: Antoine Hilton, award winning national recording artist, singer, song writer, producer

Interview Guest – Joe Laura

WLIW

JazzBlues

Certain Moves band

Juneteenth BBQ + Self Guided Tour

July 18-19

Art&Soul Hampton

In collaboration with Southampton Arts Center

Friday, July 18

Movie screening, food and music

Screening Nat Geo film Idris Elba is narrating and executive producing the National Geographic series “The Color of Victory: Heroes of WW2”. The new series is about people of color who fought during World War Two. Followed by a “Talk Back” – Emmy Award Producer Sean Johnson.

Saturday, July 19

ART & SOUL: Hamptons - ART WALK

Location: Southampton, NY

Join us for Art & Soul: Hamptons, a vibrant day-long celebration of Black art, culture, and community in the heart of the Hamptons. Hosted in collaboration with the Southampton African American Museum, the Southampton Arts Center, and Hidden Gem NY, this immersive experience brings together local artistry, cultural storytelling, and summer elegance—all in one unforgettable day.

 

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Art Walk

Explore three cultural landmarks in Southampton:

• Southampton African American Museum – 245 North Sea Rd

• Southampton Arts Center – 25 Jobs Lane

• Hidden Gem NY – 47 Jobs Lane, Suite B

A guided experience showcasing local art, history, and creative spaces.

7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Opening Art Exhibition Reception

Featuring acclaimed artist Shaunte’ Lewis – Award Winning Multidisciplinary Artist

Location: Southampton African American Museum

Celebrate the opening of this powerful exhibition with live art, music, and community connection.

10:00 PM – 11:30 PM | Closing Night Party

Wind down the day with a joyful evening on the SAAM Lawn, with music, dancing, and celebration under the stars.

CARIBBEAN COCKTAILS sponsored by the NEW ENGLAND SWEETWATER FARM & DISTILLARY.

AFTERPARTY with music vibes by DJ Infmatick.

Art & Soul: Hamptons is proudly supported by Suffolk County Economic Development and the participating cultural partners.

Don’t miss this inspiring day of art, culture, and community spirit!

SHAUNT’E LEWIS is an illustrator, designer, and fiber artist based in Indianapolis, known for her bold, vibrant, and inspiring creations. Through her artistic practice, Shaunt’e Lewis Art (SLA Studio), she brings visions to life with a unique blend of illustration, fiber art, and commercial design, offering services ranging from digital designs to murals and custom-made art pieces. Her work often features powerful female representation, clean lines, and dynamic use of color, aiming to empower and inspire.

In addition to her illustration and design work, Shaunt’e is a passionate fiber artist, creating intricate punch needle artworks that add a tactile, dimensional element to her artistic portfolio. This craft has led to exciting projects, including a recent commission to produce punch needle pieces for St. Vincent Women’s Hospital.
Shaunt’e’s artistic journey began in childhood but was briefly paused during a successful 15-year career as a hairstylist. In 2020, the pandemic reignited her passion for art, leading to a full-time transition into the art world in 2021. Since then, she has reached significant milestones, such as being featured on the cover of the New York Times art section, painting live at the Indy 500, and collaborating with major brands like West Elm, Makers Mark, Cricket Wireless, and the Pacers. Her work has also been featured in Complex Magazine and various local and national publications.

In 2024, Shaunt’e was honored with the Breakthrough Women Award from the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Indianapolis Chapter, for her contributions to Arts and Culture. This recognition reflects her dedication to using art as a means to uplift and empower others.

ARTIST OPENING RECEPTION at the Southampton African American Museum, celebrating artist in residency SHAUNT'E LEWIS

Saturday evening July 19,2025

Originally from Springfield, Massachusetts, Shaunt’e relocated to Indiana in 2011 and has since built strong connections within the community, including collaborations with Visit Indy and the Indy Chamber. As a multidisciplinary artist with background in entrepreneurship and a deep passion for both illustration and fiber art, Shaunt’e continues to expand her creative horizons while inspiring and engaging audiences through her diverse and empowering works.

SPECIAL LIVE PERFORMANCE featuring YACOUBA SISSOKO, Master kora player and SIYA African Band

 

He devotes his musical gift to expand the awareness of West African history and culture, spread the word of peace, and empower his listeners to take charge and realize their imagined futures. His performances have a magical effect on audiences as he skillfully transforms traditional songs and stories that he learned from his forefathers into modern day messages of peace, love, and harmony. Yacouba exposes new audiences to the enchanting sounds of the kora—a 21-stringed instrument that is plucked and produces a distinctive sound that is quickly associated with West Africa.

FIRESIDE CHAT with Shaunt’e Lewis, moderated by Brenda Simmons.

July 20

July Annual Fundraising Event

August

3rd Annual Amistad​

Funded by the Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning

where we came from

help us keep momentum