Amiri Geuka Farris is a visionary artist whose work transcends boundaries and defies convention. A true renaissance man, he masterfully navigates a vast array of mediums, creating bold, evocative masterpieces that are as unique as his own life experiences. Each piece he crafts pulses with energy, drawing inspiration from the raw materials he touches and the profound themes he explores.

Amiri’s art is a dazzling celebration of the human spirit, weaving together stories of diaspora, culture, memory, and perception. With an astonishing career that has seen his work showcased in over 50 solo exhibitions and juried museum shows across the globe, he has carved out a legacy as a trailblazer in the art world. His creations are not just viewed—they are felt, as they challenge perceptions and illuminate untold narratives.

With every stroke, Amiri paints a vivid tapestry of expression, inviting the world to experience art that is fearless, thought-provoking, and utterly unforgettable.

Anita’s talents extend beyond storytelling—she is an educator, singer, actress, historian, and founder of the cherished Gullah Kinfolk performance group. From performing at the prestigious Spoleto USA Festival to appearing in the iconic film Forrest Gump and PBS broadcasts of her acclaimed one-woman show Tales from the Land of Gullah, Anita has showcased Gullah traditions on national and international stages. Her true-to-life short film, My Man Done Me Wrong, earned acclaim at film festivals across the globe, while her Gospel Top 10 tale, “Chicken Dinner Money,” continues to captivate radio audiences.

Anita’s dedication to preserving Gullah culture shines in her role as curriculum coordinator for Gullah cultural education in Beaufort County schools. With a degree in psychology from Howard University and a master’s in education from the University of South Carolina, she fuses artistry and academia to inspire future generations.

Through Aunt Pearlie Sue’s unforgettable stories, Anita breathes life into the rich heritage of the Gullah people, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and resonate far and wide.

Born and raised in Charleston, SC, personal chef and caterer Benjamin “BJ” Dennis infuses the flavors and culture of the Lowcountry into his Gullah Geechee cuisine, bringing a new taste to an ever expanding culinary palate of the south.What differentiates Chef BJ’s food from his contemporaries in “southern” cooking is the homage he pays to the Gullah Geechee culture, brought to the Americas by West Africans, and disseminated along the West Indies and the American South. Dennis infuses the techniques of his ancestors, learned from four years of study in St. Thomas, as well as the lessons of his grandparents about eating from the land, to create fresh interpretations of local dishes focusing on in-season, locally sourced vegetables and seafood. Recent trips to Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Barbados, Dominica, U.S. Virgin Islands, Angola, Bahamas and Benin has brought his work full circle. Connecting the people and cultures of the African diaspora through food. Bringing back a true taste of Gullah Geechee culture.

Cora Miller channels the spirit of Harriet Tubman with unparalleled depth and authenticity. Through her unscripted, heartfelt performances, Cora weaves the untold stories of the iconic freedom fighter into vivid, personal narratives that move audiences to tears. “I believe God has placed her spirit in me to tell the stories that were never told,” Cora explains.

Born in Summerton, SC, and raised in Aiken, Cora is the granddaughter of a slave master’s daughter. She discovered her Gullah roots on Hilton Head Island, where she continues to celebrate and share this rich heritage. Beyond her moving portrayals of Tubman, Cora is a creative force known for crafting jewelry, sea-inspired wreaths, and wedding brooms, all reflecting Gullah traditions. She is also a long-time member of the Voices of El Shaddai gospel group, where her soulful performances inspire love and faith.

Cora’s connection to the sea and moon brought her to Hilton Head, where she felt immediately at home. Today, she keeps Harriet Tubman’s voice alive at tours, events, and celebrations, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire. When you see her embodying Harriet, you’ll witness history come alive through the incomparable spirit of Ms. Cora.

Deas-Guyz is a dynamic jazz band renowned for delivering an electrifying blend of Old Motown, R&B, Pop, Rock, Reggae, and Dance beats. With a repertoire that spans the timeless sounds of The Temptations and Marvin Gaye to the vibrant beats of Bob Marley and Pharrell Williams, Deas-Guyz captivates audiences of all ages. Formed in 2000, this talented ensemble brings together seasoned musicians with rich backgrounds in professional performance, creating unforgettable experiences at every event.

Known for their high-energy presence and ability to keep any party lively, Deas-Guyz has a proven track record of entertaining crowds at weddings, corporate functions, festivals, and more across the United States. Regularly delighting patrons at the Jazz Corner in Hilton Head, they also travel to venues from Las Vegas to New York, ensuring each performance is uniquely tailored to fit the occasion.

Whether you're planning a wedding reception or a corporate gala, Deas-Guyz promises to deliver hours of quality entertainment with their complete sound and light setup. Let Deas-Guyz turn your special event into a memorable celebration of music and joy. Get ready to dance the night away with their captivating and versatile musical fare!

Sallie Ann Robinson, a sixth-generation native of Daufuskie Island, SC, is a renowned ambassador of Gullah culture. A celebrated author, culinary expert, and storyteller, she brings the vibrant traditions, flavors, and history of the Gullah way of life to the world. Her acclaimed cookbooks, Gullah Home Cooking the Daufuskie Way and Cooking the Gullah Way, Morning, Noon, and Night, blend authentic recipes with rich cultural narratives, delighting readers everywhere.

Featured in outlets like BBC Travel, National Geographic, and Food Network, Sallie Ann’s charisma and passion have made her a cultural icon. On Daufuskie Island, she offers captivating tours that immerse visitors in the Gullah heritage, from its history to its enduring flavors. Through her writings, appearances, and hospitality, Sallie Ann Robinson continues to inspire and preserve the legacy of the Gullah people with unmatched heart and dedication.

Saundra “Renee” Smith is a visionary Gullah Folk Artist whose work vividly encapsulates the rich tapestry of Gullah culture through an authentic and spirited lens. As the owner of Gullah Art By Renee, LLC, she has established herself as a profound voice in the realm of self-taught artistry, drawing inspiration from the vibrant hues and stories of a culture shaped by both isolation and resilience. Her membership in the National Association of Women Artists and her recognition in the prestigious Guide to American Artist's "Self-Taught, Outsider and Folk Art" by Betty-Carol Sellen underscore her esteemed place in the art community.

Smith's masterpieces are a tribute to the Gullah Geechee Corridor—a historical bastion of the Guale Indians and West African descendants on the southeastern coast of the United States. Through her use of acrylic and oil on diverse canvases, from wood and tin to glass, she captures the daily life and spiritual essence of the Gullah people. Her art, which features women adorned in brightly colored dresses and head rags, alongside evocative depictions of baskets, flowers, water, and sky, serves as a window into the world of "de luk pon we island."

Her profound contributions to the art world are permanently celebrated at Brook Green Gardens in Myrtle Beach, SC, where her works grace the entrance of the "Gullah Geechee Garden." Beyond her artistic endeavors, Smith's academic achievements include a PhD in Spiritual Christian Counseling from Cathedral Bible College and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from Central Michigan University. Her dedication to service is further evidenced by her enduring career in nursing, culminating in her retirement from the US Naval Hospital in Beaufort, SC.

Saundra “Renee” Smith’s journey is one of transformation and influence, where the canvas becomes a narrative of cultural heritage and spiritual insight, inviting viewers to partake in the vivid journey of the Gullah experience.

Tina Tyus-Shaw has been a trusted voice in journalism for over 30 years, serving as a news anchor at WSAV-TV in Savannah, Georgia. A Griffin, Georgia native, Tina’s passion for broadcasting began early, leading her to earn a Bachelor of Science in Speech, Communication, and Theater from Tennessee State University.

Beginning her career in radio and television in Macon, North Carolina, and Columbus, Tina found her home in Savannah in 1992. By 1995, she became the lead anchor for WSAV’s nightly news, delivering trusted and impactful reporting at 6 and 11 p.m.

Tina’s influence extends beyond the newsroom. She is a tireless advocate for breast cancer awareness, spearheading the Buddy Check 3 campaign to encourage monthly self-exams. Her dedication to the cause has made a lasting difference in the lives of many.

Her inspirational reach includes her contributions to the 2016 book Shift Happens, where she shared her personal story of resilience and hope after miscarriage. A proud member of an Olympic legacy, Tina was selected to carry the Olympic Torch through Savannah in 1996, a meaningful reflection of her family’s athletic history, including her aunt Wyomia Tyus, a three-time Olympic gold medalist.

Through her reporting, advocacy, and personal stories, Tina Tyus-Shaw continues to inspire, inform, and uplift those around her.

Since moving to Hilton Head in 1977, Pastor Hay has become an integral part of the Gullah community. He joined Central Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church in 1978 and served as a deacon from 1980 to 1997. His pursuit of further education led him to study at the SC Baptist Seminary and fulfill the licensing requirements for Pastoral Leadership. In September 1997, Pastor Hay received his license as a Baptist minister and delivered his inaugural sermon titled "What is Man That thou art mindful of Him?". He served as an associate minister at Central Oak Grove until 2006 and then took on the role of pastor at Zion Fair Missionary Baptist Church in Varnville, SC from October 2006 to September 2014. Following his tenure at Zion Fair, Pastor Hay served as a visiting pastor at Daufuskie Island's First Union African.

Driven by a deep sense of spiritual calling, Pastor Hay continued his educational journey, honing his understanding and application of Biblical teachings. This pursuit led him to earn his Doctorate of Divinity degree with honors from the Partners to the Promise Christian College in June 2022. Engaged in daily study and reflection on scripture, Pastor Hay exemplifies a devout commitment to his faith. In addition to his spiritual endeavors, he finds joy in travel, reading, and sports.

Lavon Stevens, a native of Savannah, GA, discovered his passion for music at age 7, honing his craft in piano and voice. With decades of experience, Lavon has become a celebrated performer and producer, captivating audiences nationwide—from Aspen to New York—and calling Hilton Head Island, SC home since 1982. A premier entertainer at The Legendary Jazz Corner since 2004 and producer for the Native Island Gullah Celebration Festival, Lavon’s talent spans jazz, gospel, and rhythm & blues.

Beyond music, he’s a dedicated community leader, serving as vice chair of the Historic Mitchelville Preservation Project and chair of the Gullah Geechee Land and Cultural Preservation Task Force. From performing at Carnegie Hall to missions in Kenya, Lavon’s artistry and impact are boundless. With acclaimed recordings like Traveling Music and collaborations with artists like Marlena Smalls, Lavon translates his philosophy—love through the power of music—into everything he creates.

Born and raised in the heart of the Lowcountry, Chef Wendell Osborne has cultivated a deep connection to the rich culinary traditions and flavors of the region. With over 20 years of experience in some of Hilton Head Island’s most distinguished restaurants, Chef Wendell has honed his craft by blending classic techniques with creative innovation. His deep understanding of Southern coastal cuisine has solidified his reputation as a talented and dedicated culinary artist.

Today, Chef Wendell is the visionary owner of Food Savvy Mobile, a standout food truck beloved by locals and visitors alike, and Food Savvy Catering, a boutique catering service that transforms events into flavorful experiences. Known for his unwavering commitment to quality, he takes pride in crafting dishes that celebrate the freshness of local seafood. By pairing these ingredients with his signature house-made spice blends, he creates dishes that not only delight the palate but also tell a story of the Lowcountry’s heritage.

Whether on wheels or through catered events, Chef Wendell Osborne remains a proud ambassador of Lowcountry flavors, bringing his creative vision and passion for Southern cuisine to every table he touches.

Felton Eaddy, poet, singer, arts educator and professor, lives in Dillon, South Carolina. He Studied English at Claflin University, and creative writing at Johns Hopkins University. His poems have appeared in African American Review, Catalyst Magazine, Out of the Rough and Crux. Author of Bending Over to Pick up a Snake and Living by the Sword, Eaddy is a poet and teaching artist who contracts with Georgia, South Carolina, Atlanta, Fulton County, GA and Young Audiences of Atlanta as a literary artist. Professor emeritus at Clark Atlanta University, the poet founded and hosts Felton Eaddy’s Poetry Kitchen, a long-term project which features poets in performance.