About The Event

Preserving the Past, Shaping Our Future 

Join us on Monday, January 19, when the Cleveland Museum of Art opens its doors for a free daylong celebration honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Explore how the moving passages of Dr. King’s writings and speeches shed light on the museum’s collection and create a work of art inspired by his legacy.  

This year’s theme centers on reflection and the importance of preserving history and legacies—through art, performance, oral history, objects, and our communities themselves. 

Guests are invited to experience the exhibition Renaissance to Runway for FREE. No tickets are required. Visitors are admitted into the exhibition throughout the day on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Art Stories

Ames Family Atrium

Storytime with Hassan

11:00–11:30 a.m. 

Storytime with Hassan is an interactive storytelling experience in the tradition of the griot.

Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers featuring Barbara Eady

1:00–1:30 p.m. 

Experience the power of the African Oral Tradition with the Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers. Through dynamic storytelling, CABS brings history, culture, and community to life. 

Special Performances

Ames Family Atrium

3:00–4:00 p.m. 

Poetry Performance 

Michelle R. Smith

Musical Performance 

Sonaria

Dance Performance

10K Movement