Kentucky Author and Poet to speak about Art, Food and Culture
Paducah, KY (02/19/2025) — Award-winning author and former Kentucky Poet Laureate Crystal Wilkinson will hold a special conversation at the Clemens Fine Arts Center on February 27, sharing insights into her recent work, a culinary memoir examining the recipes and inherited stories of five generations of her Appalachian ancestors. The event is part of the Clemens' Art & Ideas Series, and coincides with the Black History Month celebration at West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC).
Wilkinson, the author of the national bestselling book Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts: Stories and Recipes from Five Generations of Black Country Cooks, will discuss the book, which blends memoir and recipe collection. Wilkinson says,"I wrote these stories so that we never forget to sing the glorious praises of country, Black women, and the kitchens they cooked in."
Following the talk, Wilkinson will be joined on stage by her husband, renowned artist Ron Davis, and WKCTC Dean of Arts & Sciences and poet Britton Shurley for a thought-provoking conversation on the intersection of art, food, and culture. The evening will conclude with a reception and a book signing.
The Arts & Ideas Series brings together local communities to explore the dynamic connections between creativity, scholarship, and civic engagement. This event is free and open to all, though reservations are highly recommended.
Event Details:
What: Crystal Wilkinson discusses Art, Food, and Culture
When: February 27, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Where: Clemens Fine Arts Center, 4810 Alben Barkley Drive, Paducah, KY (WKCTC Main Campus)
To learn more about Crystal Wilkinson or to reserve your spot, please visit artsinfocus.org.
For media inquiries, contact: Malissa Kano-White Director of Visual and Performing Arts 270-534-3902
Media Attachments
Crystal Wilkinson, author of Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts: Stories and Recipes from Five Generations of Black Country Cooks
West Kentucky Community & Technical College
Whitney Walker - whitney.walker@kctcs.edu - 270-534-3079Share this Story
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