Special to IFN

Author L. Melissa Smith will discuss the life of pioneering sculptor Selma Burke, who broke barriers for women in the arts, during a program at the Iredell County Public Library in Statesville on Tuesday, March 4.

Smith will provide an overview of Burke and read selected passages from her book, “Graven Images, An In-Depth Chronicle of the Life of Prolific Artist Selma Hortense Burke.”

The free program begins at 6 p.m.

The session will include a narrative of Burke’s journey from her childhood in Mooresville to becoming an internationally recognized artist.

Burke was one of the first Black American women to receive commissions for public monuments, and she paved the way for future generations of women artists. Smith will also share some lesser-known facts about Burke, offering an intimate look at the woman behind her iconic sculptures.

Attendees will be invited to share their thoughts and reflections on her work.

 Registration

Seating is limited Registration is free and can be completed online at https://iredell-lib-nc.libcal.com/event/13458353.