Press Release
Just Be You, a local 501(c)3 non-profit, has partnered with artist Alexandria Searles, also as known as Morowa Mosai, and Edmund's Oast to bring an inspiring and thought-provoking mural to the peninsula.
“At Just Be You we work to build teens’ confidence through self love, helping them become more resilient and confident in their individuality ” says Beth Rucker, Founder of Just Be You. “During this time of devisiveness, we knew the significance this mural would have in amplifying the importance of being good humans to all humans. When we met with Alexandria, we knew immediately she would make this project extraordinary. I’m truly thankful for Edmund's Oast and their willingness to offer space to Alexandria and her amazing talent. It was a beautiful collaboration from the start.”
Through Searles work, she focuses on the upliftment of Black people and African-American women.
“This project is important to me because of the message that it carries,” Searles said. “It is important because of its location. Downtown Charleston is a place that romanticizes its history. It's necessary to have an artwork that resonates with the Black people who live in a place where they are often excluded.”
This piece, featured on the Morrison Drive side of Edmund's Oast, is meant to stop people on the streets through both its beauty and its powerful words.
“We are honored to host this very important piece of work by Alexandria that speaks to the fractures in our community,” Scott Shor, Operating Partner of Edmund's Oast, said. “We have so much work to do and this prominent reminder will help keep the message front and center in our neighborhood.”
Please join Just Be You for a mural reveal and art walk by artist Morowa Morai on Thursday, September 24th at 7:30 pm on the patio at Edmund’s Oast. A portion of the proceeds for Morowa Morai's artwork will be donated back to three area nonprofits: Just Be You, I am Somebody and Because I Can. Enjoy a cocktail, dance to DJ Scrib and bring a smile under your mask. Please practice social distancing.
For more information, visit justbeyou.org, edmundsoast.com, morowamosai.com.
