The entrance lobby at Independence Bank in Owensboro is serving as a gallery space throughout February as the bank recognizes Black History Month with an art exhibit featuring local artists.
The display, located just inside the Frederica Street entrance, includes portrait work by Owensboro artist KO Lewis, along with a collaborative exhibit from mother-daughter duo Laurie and Diane Huff, whose artwork documents their experiences in Kenya.
Lewis said the opportunity to showcase his work in a community-centered space was meaningful, both personally and professionally.
“Representation is important,” Lewis said. “The more that we’re able to showcase what all walks of life are doing in our community, the more that we can grow a stronger community.”
Lewis’ exhibit features approximately eight pieces, primarily portrait work highlighting influential cultural figures. Among those represented are Nina Simone, Miles Davis, poet and activist Gil Scott-Heron, and artist Frida Kahlo. The display also includes a piece honoring Jackie Robinson and Rachel Robinson.
Lewis said there is no single theme tying the work together beyond highlighting meaningful voices and perspectives.
“They want that entryway to reflect local talent and local representation,” Lewis said. “I respect that, and I was more than willing to participate.”
All artwork included in the exhibit is available for purchase, Lewis said.
Evan Gorman, a marketing specialist at Independence Bank, said the display is part of the bank’s broader effort to recognize Black History Month while highlighting artists whose work resonates with the community.
The displays are coordinated by Dorothy Reid, Independence Bank’s visual display designer, who oversees rotating exhibits across eight markets. Reid manages 26 display cases that rotate approximately every six to eight weeks and feature a mix of bank history, community themes, and local art.
The second display featured in the lobby is a collaborative exhibit by a mother and daughter, combining artwork and photography inspired by a trip to Kenya. Gorman said the pieces reflect a disappearing way of life for a tribal community they encountered during their travels.
“That display kind of shows a disappearing world,” Reid said. “It tells the story of people being pushed out of their villages for a number of different reasons.”
Reid said the Owensboro exhibit has received a strong response from visitors.
“People stop, and they stare,” she said. “They really take the time to look at the artwork.”
The exhibit is on display at Independence Bank, 2425 Frederica Street, during normal business hours and is expected to remain up through mid-March. Bank officials encourage the public to stop by and view the artwork while it is on display.
