Up from Down Home: The Journey North

Northminster Presbyterian Church Tower Gallery
2515 Central Park Avenue
Evanston, IL 60201

Northminster Presbyterian Church is pleased to announce the Saturday, October 1st community opening of Up From Down Home: The Journey North, works by Evanston Artist Jevoid Simmons from 10 AM – 12 Noon in its Tower Gallery exhibition space. Jevoid Simmons will present brief remarks, and share the story of his family through 17 paintings depicting his family’s journey from rural Alabama in the early 1950’s as part of the mass exodus of Black folks out of the South seeking survival and better opportunities. 

Simmons is a painter and woodcarver, working primarily in the folk/primitive style. Through his art and written narrative, he documents his family’s history through his paintings and his first book, Up From Down Home: The Journey North. He has exhibited his work locally at the Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center, Evanston’s Noyes Cultural Art Center, Evanston Art Center, Garrett Theological Seminary, The Art Institute of Chicago, 1100 Florence Gallery and Creative Coworking Gallery. Simmons is a 40-year resident of Evanston, IL. He and his life partner (wife) Dickelle Fonda share their home with two Siberian huskies, and are proud parents of Seth Simmons, who also resides in Evanston.

The exhibit will be in place through October 30th with several public opportunities for viewing during that time. No reservations necessary. 

• Saturday, October 1, 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
• Sundays Only October 2 – 30, 1:00 – 3:00 PM

Groups may schedule a viewing of the exhibit outside these days and times by calling 847-869-9210 and inquiring about availability.

Masks are strongly recommended, and social distancing is required at all times inside the building. The gallery is located in the main two-story stairway to the sanctuary, making portions inaccessible to those with mobility challenges.