A leader is defined as a person in a position of authority who is the example that influences a group of people towards the achievement of a goal. Local portrait artist Brenda Singleton has made black leaders in Beaufort County the subject of her latest portrait project. This project, The Black Leaders of Beaufort County Portrait Project, features several influential African Americans in our community.
Singleton was motivated to do this project by the presidential campaign and election of President Barack Obama as the first African American to hold the highest leadership position in this nation.
The people of Beaufort County were invited to be a part of this project by nominating the person who they recognized as a black leader in Beaufort County.
The Black Leaders of Beaufort County Portrait Project collection of paintings will be exhibited at the LyBensons Gallery &amp; Studio. The project includes portraits of such influential people as community leader Emory Campbell; dedicated Dr. Rosalind Dawson; retired educator Etta Mann; President of the Ministerial Alliance Rev. Dr. Sam T. Spain, Sr.; and Rep. Kenneth Hodges.
The opening reception will be Saturday, March 24, from 3-5 p.m.  The reception is free and open to the public. LyBensons Gallery is located at 211 Charles St. downtown. The works will remain on display until May 12.