The Ringling Museum in collaboration with the Sarasota African American Cultural  Coalition is proud to present a special Juneteenth talk from 6 – 8 p.m. on June 19 at the historic Leonard Reid House,  2529 N. Orange Avenue. The event will highlight the significant contributions of prominent African American artists  Eleanor Merritt and John Sims, and their impact on the local art scene. Both artists have shaped Sarasota’s artistic landscape, influenced a generation of young Black artists and expanded their  opportunities.  Jevon Brown, The Ringling’s first Merritt Fellow is the event's featured speaker. The Rhode Island School of Design  graduate majored in textiles with a concentration in the theory of art history and design emphasizing African American  artists. Jevon has a passion for community engagement. The Miami native is committed to fostering dialogue around race  and representation in art. The Ringling’s year-long fellowship provides an opportunity for young scholars such as Brown  to develop skills across museum departments and provides a platform to showcase their work. The Juneteenth talk increases public awareness about Sarasota’s diverse artistic heritage and encourages meaningful  discussions about race and representation in the arts.  Join us for an evening of insightful conversation. The event is free, but seating is limited. Please RSVP by contacting  Mydahlia Glover, mgloversaacc@outlook.com or call (813) 419-0454.