The Black Excellence Experience: Featuring Robert Coleman

Sabathani Community Center Presents

The Black Excellence Experience: Featuring Robert Coleman

• Monday, Dec. 1 – Friday, Dec. 5
• 10am–4pm
• The BEE Gallery – Room 138

Join us for a spotlight on the artwork of Jennifer Stewart, featured artist in the Black Excellence Experience.

Stop by the BEE Gallery (Room 138) to:

• Meet the artist in person
• Explore a powerful collection of original artwork
• Shop one-of-a-kind pieces
• Connect through community, creativity, and shared stories

About the Artist: Robert Thomas Coleman

Known as The Gentleman Artist, Robert Thomas Coleman came to art later in life, and in the most unexpected ways. Unlike many artists, he didn’t grow up sketching or doodling, nor did he imagine himself pursuing a creative path. His first encounter with art came at age 36 while bedridden during a total right-foot reconstruction. With nothing more than a pencil, he began to explore drawing for the first time.

At 47, after a near-death experience, Robert discovered something even more extraordinary: the ability to paint. He describes this gift not as something learned but something awakened. “I can’t explain how I do what I do,” he says. “I just know that I can do it.”

Today, Robert channels that remarkable journey into his vibrant and expressive work, inviting viewers to witness the beauty that emerged from challenge, resilience, and grace.

Why It Matters

Black and BIPOC artists have always created in abundance, yet traditional galleries and museums have historically underrepresented our voices. The Black Excellence Experience creates space to showcase this artistry, uplift community, and invite everyone to engage directly with the creative process.

Art is community—and community is art. This residency is not only a celebration, but also a chance to:

• Support a Black/BIPOC business
• Discover new mediums and creative practices
• Network and build connections
• Step out of your headspace and into inspiration

About the Black Excellence Experience

The Black Excellence Experience is a new initiative from Sabathani Community Center, supporting emerging Black artists through residencies, exhibitions, and community engagement opportunities. Learn more.