(Wilson, N.C.) – May 29, 2025 – The Sallie B. Howard School Art Department has announced the return of “Walls of Wilson,” an outdoor art exhibit, launching on Juneteenth – June 19, 2025 – at the historic St. John AME Zion Church.
This year’s theme is “Joy,” and features vibrant expressions of happiness and optimism through the eyes of SBH middle and high school Art Majors. The artwork will be installed in various sizes around the perimeter of the church.
The location of “Walls of Wilson” (WOW) is a tribute to the origins of Sallie B. Howard School, which started as the Youth Enrichment Program (YEP) summer camp established in 1989 at St. John Church. St. John is where SBHS Founder/Executive Director Dr. JoAnne Woodard first met Mrs. Sallie Baldwin Howard, who was a long-time member and head of the church’s youth programs.
The featured WOW artists were selected from over 60 Art Majors. The exhibit includes contributions from both Exceptional Children and regular ed students.
“We are incredibly excited to bring ‘Walls of Wilson’ back to our community for another year,” said SBH Art teacher and WOW project lead Carrie Nobles. “This exhibit is not only an opportunity for our students to share their hard work and creativity with the public, but it also serves as a beautiful way to enrich the cultural landscape of Wilson. This year’s theme of ‘Joy’ feels especially timely, and we believe the artwork will resonate deeply with everyone who experiences it.”
The public is invited to experience “Walls of Wilson” at a special kick-off ceremony in the St. John AME Zion Church parking lot (119 Pender St E) beginning Thursday, June 19 at 10AM. The artwork will be on display until June 26.
The “Walls of Wilson” project was supported by the Grassroots Arts Program of the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
For more information on the SBH Arts program, visit salliebhowardschool.com/arts.
About Sallie B. Howard School of Arts & Science
Sallie B. Howard School of Arts & Science, a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School, is a free, public charter school founded in 1997 in Wilson, N.C. that serves 1,200 students in grades K-12. Named after the legendary author, educator, playwright and actress Sallie Baldwin Howard, SBHS is dedicated to ensuring that every child – privileged or underprivileged – gets the kind of education that will allow them to become more than they ever thought they would be. With a performing arts-based curriculum, a study abroad program that has brought hundreds of children to nearly all 7 continents, a culturally diverse faculty and student body, and the addition of a high school, Sallie B. Howard School is preparing its students to become 21st century industry leaders both locally and globally.
