Posted by | Ray Cornelius
Essence is teaming up with Hollywood’s Paley Center for a new exhibition titled “The Power of Our Presence.” It celebrates the 10th Year Anniversary of Essence’s “Black Women in Hollywood Awards” and runs all throughout the month of February beginning the 8th through the 28th.
According to the press release, the exhibit is a highlight of the Paley Center’s Black History Month programming and features costumes from hit television series and their leading actresses including the iconic white coats worn by Kerry Washington in “Scandal,” Tracee Ellis Ross’s scrubs from “black-ish” and a costume from Taraji P. Henson’s Cookie Lion of “Empire.”
The exhibition will also feature archived memorabilia, photos and footage from the “Essence’s Black Women in Hollywood” luncheon’s nine-year history including re-creations of the event’s extraordinary tablescapes, images from past honorees, special video messages from Angela Bassett and Lynn Whitfield, a compilation footage of some the event’s most touching acceptance speeches and much more.
“We are beyond thrilled to partner with the Paley Center to present the Power of Our Presence exhibit—as Essence prepares to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Black Women in Hollywood Awards,” said Essence President Michelle Ebanks. “Experience the magic of the red carpet as it comes to life and shines a spotlight on the most influential and pioneering women in Hollywood.”
For the past decade, “Essence’s Black Women in Hollywood Awards“ have paid homage to modern image-makers—both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Since its inception in 2008, the awards have honored some of the most cherished figures in the industry, including Oprah Winfrey, Lupita Nyong’o, Ava DuVernay, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, Taraji P. Henson and many more.
This year’s event will shift from a daytime luncheon to an evening gala for the first time and will be held at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills, CA, on Thursday, February 23, 2017. A private opening reception for the exhibit will take place on Tuesday, February 7, 2017. Click here for additional information.
The Essence “Power of our Presence” exhibit is presented by AT&T and the Minority Business Development Agency.
Photo Credit: The Paley Center
