"Echoes of the Gullah Geechee" is a collection of five pieces that weave together the stories and landscapes of the Gullah Geechee people. This series is my tribute to their resilience, culture, and contributions to American history. Through the depiction of three significant figures and two landmark scenes, I aim to illuminate the rich heritage and ongoing legacy of the Gullah Geechee community. 

Hasting Gantt was a revered community leader, Charlotte Forten was the first African American teacher at the Penn Center, and the soldier was a dedicated civil rights officer symbolizing the strength and dedication of the Gullah Geechee people. These portraits capture their spirit and unwavering commitment to their community and beyond. The Penn Center and the view from the Retreat House serve as reminders of the enduring presence and cultural significance of the Gullah Geechee in the landscape of the American South. Together, these pieces create a narrative that honors the past while celebrating the vibrant and dynamic present of the Gullah Geechee people. 

Bereket Barkley is an artist dedicated to exploring and creating art that means more than just a pretty picture. With a focus on the Gullah Geechee people, his work seeks to bring to light the stories and contributions of this resilient community. Bereket's art is a blend of portraiture and landscape, aiming to preserve and honor the legacies of those who have shaped the cultural fabric of the American South. He uses both water color and acrylic to symbolize the different features and characteristics of island life and culture. The way that one can shout and hear echoes in a cave, Bereket creates art from the echoes of those who lived to carry their voices into the future.

Bereket Barrkley