Honoring History – Taufeeq Muhammed unveils new painting at Thursday luncheon

It all started more than 50 years ago.

Seven Southern University students staged the first sit-in at the Kress Store in downtown Baton Rouge on March 28.

“That day triggered multiple sit-ins within the next couple of days,” Christopher Turner says.

Turner is the director and curator of the Kress Gallery, the former location of the Kress Store, located off Third Street.

This Thursday, Turner along with local artist Taufeeq Muhammed will honor that first sit-in with a luncheon and painting unveiling at the gallery.

The event, dubbed “Honoring Our Past,” will feature catering by Stroubes Seafood and Steaks as well as a showing of the documentary Taking a Seat for Justice. Tickets are $35. Reservations are required. Call 931-0134 to reserve your seat.

Muhammad’s new painting combines a cubist style with progressive European forms, he says.

“We were able to research and go through the archives and produce a couple news clippings from the ’60s,” Muhammed says. “From there, I started to put a painting together that symbolized the sit-in.”

The painting is big—standing at five-foot-by-four-foot—colorful and dramatic.

“I wanted to symbolize the transition from where we were to where we’re at now,” Muhammed says. “It’s an explosive painting. I think it’s something the city will appreciate.”