Asheville artist Joseph Pearson

“Women of Distinction: If you can see it, you can be it.”

The Delta House Life Development of Asheville, Inc. presents an art exhibition by Joseph A. Pearson in celebration of Women’s History Month and Racial Healing Through Art.

Women of Distinction is an homage to Pearson’s last living aunt. The exhibition opens Saturday, March 20, 2021 at Delta House, 218 South French Broad Avenue in Asheville, and moves to the YMI Cultural Center from May 17 through June 21, 2021. Pearson’s works will also be on display at other venues well into the summer.

Delta House Life Development will host a Zoom webinar on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 4 p.m. Pearson will talk about his work and you will have an opportunity to ask questions. To register for the webinar, email Delta House at [email protected].

Portrait of Brenda Mills by Joseph Pearson.
Detail of portrait of Brenda Mills by Joseph Pearson.

Artist’s Statement

My project may best be described as an effort to pay it forward. It pays homage to my last living aunt (97) and the women of her generation, my mom, and aunts, who nurtured me and encouraged me in a life of service, and many unsung heroines. These were women who worked hard in the home and in their communities, using their innate gifts in service to others.

My gift is making art, and it is through this avenue I strive to make a difference. With that said, through this body of work, I want to recognize, celebrate, and honor many professional women in the Asheville community and beyond, and to provide a platform from which these successful women can speak to and encourage younger women and girls in the pursuit of their dreams. These women bring years of experience and expertise in various fields that young women and girls can draw from as they strive to reach their potential as contributing members of our society.

The portraits that will be on exhibit are Carol Anders, Casey Arbor, Cortina Janelle Caldwell, Debra Campbell, Cleaster Cotton, Virginia Derryberry, Octavia Dunlap, Hedy Fischer, Kamala Harris, Minnie Mack, Esther Manheimer, Elizabeth McCorvey, Brenda Mills, Michelle Obama, Miriam Pearson, Gae Perry-Pearson, Jenny Pickens, Vine Marie Pearson, Lucille Randolph, Hanan Shabazz, Bianca White, and Shirley W. Whitesides.

Registration for the webinar at zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AFmJgSoEQiaENjn22W0SGg. For more information, please contact Shirley Whitesides at (828) 230-9192 or [email protected].