TUE, OCT 7 at 6:00PM

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On Display October 1 – October 31

Join us for an evening of art, truth, and community dialogue with the opening reception of Americans Who Tell the Truth, Robert Shetterly’s celebrated portrait series. Presented in partnership with Seton Hall University’s One College, One Exhibition, this exhibition spotlights five striking portraits: Langston Hughes, Pete Seeger, John Lewis, César Chávez, and Sojourner Truth. Each one is a moving testament to courage, justice, and the ongoing fight to fulfill America’s democratic ideals.

More than an art show, this event blends powerful imagery with thought-provoking storytelling to inspire and challenge us to imagine a fairer, more equitable society.

  • Inspiring Portraits of Courage – Explore Robert Shetterly’s vivid, masterfully rendered portraits of five iconic changemakers, each paired with powerful words that capture their legacy and call to action.
  • Dynamic Panel Conversation – Join us for a live conversation, moderated by Dr. Bryan Crable, Founding Dean of Seton Hall’s College of Human Development, Culture, and Media.  Dean Crable will be joined by Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Senior Pastor of the First Baptist Church of South Orange; Nette Forné Thomas, acclaimed visual artist, educator, and curator; and John McEwen, Executive Director of the New Jersey Theatre Alliance and a statewide advocate for access and inclusion in the arts. Together, these dynamic leaders will explore how truth-telling, civic courage, and creative expression continue to shape the social fabric of our communities.
  • A Gathering for Connection & Reflection – Enjoy an evening that blends art, conversation, and community, leaving you inspired to stand up for truth and justice in your own life.

Come for the art, stay for the dialogue, and leave inspired to see your role in telling the truth.

Panelists
Bryan Crable, Ph.D. (Moderator)
Dr. Bryan Crable is the Founding Dean of the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media at Seton Hall University. An accomplished scholar in communication and rhetorical theory, his research spans Kenneth Burke, Ralph Ellison, and the ways language and culture shape identity and social justice. Before joining Seton Hall in 2023, he was a professor and program leader at Villanova University, where he also founded the Waterhouse Family Institute for the Study of Communication and Society.

Terry L. Richardson, D.Min.
Terry L. Richardson has served as the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of South Orange since 1997, where he has guided the congregation through decades of growth, revitalization, and expanded community engagement. His leadership is marked by a deep commitment to spiritual enrichment, social justice, and creating spaces where faith informs civic life. As a trusted voice in the region, Dr. Richardson bridges the worlds of religion, community, and public service.

Nette Forné Thomas
Nette Forné Thomas is a celebrated visual artist, educator, and curator who has lived in Maplewood since 1975. She taught art at Newark’s Weequahic High School and Arts High School, inspiring generations of students through her creative guidance. Today, she continues her leadership as President of Pen and Brush, one of New York City’s leading organizations advocating for women in the visual and literary arts. Her artwork and curatorial projects highlight cultural identity, heritage, and the transformative power of art.

John McEwen
John McEwen has served as Executive Director of the New Jersey Theatre Alliance since 2001, leading efforts to strengthen and promote the state’s professional theatre community. He previously held leadership roles at Paper Mill Playhouse and the New Jersey Network Foundation and founded the Cultural Access Network Project, advancing inclusion and accessibility in the arts. Active in teaching and mentorship, McEwen has dedicated his career to broadening access and ensuring the performing arts remain a vital civic resource.

Accessibility & Accommodation

 For details, visit our Accessibility page.

If you or a member of your party needs assistance, please notify SOPAC at the time your tickets are purchased. Contact the SOPAC Box Office at (973) 313-2787 or boxoffice@SOPACnow.org.