Celebrate Juneteenth Through Art at OLLU

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Our Lady of the Lake University Hosts Juneteenth Art Exhibition

Celebrating Freedom, Culture, and Legacy

San Antonio, Texas -- June 18, 2026 -- Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) is hosting a special Juneteenth art exhibition presented by The Art of Four Art Initiative, showcasing the work of Black and minority artists whose creations explore themes of freedom, resilience, culture, and community.

The exhibition is on display through June 30, 2026, in the AT&T Foundation Student Commons on the third floor of OLLU's Main Building and is open to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the public.

Curated by Maria M. Williams, Executive Director of The Art of Four Art Initiative and founder of In the Eye of the Beholder Art Gallery, the exhibition features works that honor the significance of Juneteenth while inviting visitors to reflect on history, identity, healing, and artistic expression.

"This exhibition was born from a deep belief that art is more than visual expression-it is memory, resistance, healing, storytelling, and legacy," said Williams. "Through the voices and visions of Black and minority artists, we honor the spirit of Juneteenth while creating opportunities for meaningful connection and understanding."

The exhibition also carries personal significance for Williams. Her older brother, Clifton B. Hazlewood Jr., attended OLLU, making the partnership a meaningful tribute to family, education, resilience, and community legacy.

"Juneteenth is an opportunity to honor the ongoing pursuit of freedom, justice, and human dignity," said Dr. Abel Chávez, President of OLLU. "As a university with a history of advocating for civil rights and one that is grounded in the values of service, social justice, and respect for the dignity of every person, OLLU is proud to host this exhibition. The artwork on display invites reflection, fosters meaningful dialogue, and celebrates the rich cultural contributions and enduring legacy of Black and minority communities."

Throughout her career as a curator, cultural strategist, arts advocate, and as an Afro-Latina, Williams has championed greater representation and visibility for Black and minority artists. She has shared her perspectives on cultural equity and artistic inclusion at institutions including The University of Texas at San Antonio, The University of Texas at Austin, and Texas A&M University-San Antonio.

The partnership between OLLU and The Art of Four Art Initiative reflects a shared commitment to cultural understanding, artistic diversity, and community engagement. Through powerful visual storytelling, the exhibition highlights the enduring impact of Black history and culture while celebrating the transformative role of art in education and social awareness.

"As visitors move through the exhibition, they will encounter stories of resilience, freedom, excellence, and ancestral pride reflected in every work presented," Williams said. "We hope this experience inspires reflection, conversation, healing, and collective joy."

The exhibition remains open through June 30, 2026, in the AT&T Foundation Student Commons on the third floor of OLLU's Main Building.

About Our Lady of the Lake University

Founded in 1895 by the Sisters of Divine Providence, Our Lady of the Lake University is a Catholic institution committed to serving diverse communities and empowering students through education. As the birthplace of Hispanic Serving Institutions, OLLU has long been a national leader in advancing educational access and opportunity for underserved populations.

For media inquiries, please contact:Office of Marketing and [email protected]

Maria M. Williams: [email protected] (210) 454-4908