One of the artists, James Robinson, coordinator of Courier Express for Business Services, said he wanted observers to receive a positive message through his paintings.

"I want people to have love and respect for Africa and African Americans," Robinson said.

Another artist, Crystal Brown (senior-psychology) constructed collages using magazine clippings to include many themes.

"My works deals with my inner self as an African-American woman," Brown said. She added her work shows changes of life.

The program, which was sponsored by Black Caucus with the help of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., raised funds and brought awareness of lupus, a disease in which the immune system loses control. It mainly affects minorities.

"Minority women are more at risk for getting the disease," said Arianna Ramirez (sophomore-administration of justice) and member of the sorority.

In addition, the festival included other art forms such as song, dance and fashion.

The program began with a song by Latya Redditt (sophomore-marketing and international business) titled "I Love the Lord," by Whitney Houston. The song was followed by a poetic rendition of a rap written by Black Caucus member Chenits Pettigrew (sophomore-communications).

In keeping with the flow, the Caribbean Student Association performed a cultural dance routine encompassing rhythmic hip movements. The performance was followed by a poem recitation which focused on issues surrounding multiculturalism.

After the presentations, the highlight of the program was fashion show of works by Moshood, a designer of African fashions with western influence from Brooklyn.

Overall, many students were pleased to have a program featuring African-American talent.

"It's something that could be done more often, not just during Black History Month," Brown said.