If you don’t know Danny Simmons, you’re no doubt familiar with at least one of his projects, and you most certainly know his famous siblings; Reverend Run and Russell Simmons.  Danny and Russell are the brains behind HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, but beyond the hit show and the high-profile relatives, Danny has made a name for himself as an abstract expressionist artist, author, poet, and philanthropist.

As the co-founder and Chairman of Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, Danny founded Rush Arts Gallery and Corridor Gallery, both of which serve as an exhibit platform and springboard for under-exposed artists with no commercial representation or backers.

A showing of Simmons’ own artwork along with pieces from his personal African art collection will be on display at Gallery 1 in Jackson during the month of February. The display was made possibly through the joint efforts of Gallery 1 and Jackson State University. The title of the exhibit, “I Dreamed My People Were Calling But I Couldn’t Find My Way Home” is also the title of an art and poetry book by Simmons.  Gallery 1 director Kimberly Jacobs believes that the ancestral and spiritual themes in Simmons’ work will help broaden the community’s view of African-American and African art.

An opening reception for the exhibit will be held at Gallery 1 on February 6th at 5 p.m. On February 7th, there will be a poetry reading and book signing at JSU’s Student Center at 7 p.m.

Get more info at Gallery 1 (601-979-9250)  1100 John R. Lynch St, Jackson MS

Jackson State University Student Center ( 601-979-2121) 1400 John R. Lynch St. Jackson MS

Related article at Jackson Free Press