Extraordinary achievements are a part of Morgan Wright’s academic journey — class valedictorian, student body president, enrolled in classes where she receives both high school and college credit, and acceptance to over 100 universities, including Ivy League schools — so it is not a surprise Wright organized an art exhibit for her senior project at Charles A. Tindley Accelerated School.
The capstone project, a requirement for all seniors at the school, is presented to a panel of judges and is the culmination of months of work that began at the beginning of the school year.
“Morgan is a wonderful student who is self-motivated, independent, and a networker,” Wright’s teacher Jennifer Swain said. “No senior project I’ve witnessed has been done to the scale that Morgan is doing hers.”
The finished product, “The Culture on 10th Street,” is an art exhibit celebrating Black culture.
“This project may be required for graduation, but it is more to me,” Wright, 18, said. “I want to impact Indianapolis and its Black community continuously not just once. Once people see themselves being represented, they are more likely to feel empowered.”
During her research, Wright discovered an interest in art about Black culture. Wright counts author David Leander Williams and his novels about Black culture on Indiana Avenue as well as the fine arts fair BUTTER by cultural development firm GANGGANG among her inspirations. GANGGANG cofounders Mali Jeffers and Alan Bacon also served as marketing directors for Wright’s exhibit by spreading the word of her event to their more than 7,000 followers on social media.
“The Culture on 10th Street” will feature art by graphic designers, painters and photographers as well as poets and singers. Williams’ inspiration can be felt in Wright’s choice of location for the event. Like Williams, who centered downtown in his novels, Wright chose Re:Public, a downtown venue, to house her exhibit.
In addition to her academic accomplishments and curating her own exhibit, Wright is the CEO of her own photography business, Royalty Photography. After graduation, Wright plans to study communications in college.
“Morgan has always been passionate about individuals like her and that look like her,” Wright’s father, Timothy, said. “Anything and everything she touches, she gives 100% and that is all I could ask for as a parent.”
Contact staff writer Malashia Pringle at 317-924-5143 or email at malashiap@indyrecorder.com. Follow her on Twitter @MalashiaAp.
IF YOU GO:
What: “The Culture on 10th Street,” an art exhibit by Morgan Wright, a senior at Charles A. Tindley Accelerated School
When: 1-6 p.m. April 16
Where: Re:Public, 2301 E. 10th St.
Cost: Free, RSVP on eventbrite.com
