Joplin’s Art and Entertainment non-profit Connect 2 Culture on Thursday presented the Langston Hughes Cultural Society with a check worth $6,250 to create a new mural remembering Black history in the city.

The painting, unveiled yesterday at the Joplin Public Library, reflects Black artists that have performed in Joplin over the years.

Nanda Nunnelly with the Langston Hughes Cultural Society says selecting the mural and who should be depicted on it was a group effort.

“A lot of people came together in researching and finding out different performers that had performed in Joplin over our history. Of course, we highlight Mr. Charles McPherson; he is the only one that is painted in color. He has spoken about how he remembers hearing some of these performers when he was a young person, at the park and also at Lincoln school.”

Proceeds for the mural came from private donations and Charles McPherson’s February 18 concert in Joplin. The downtown site where the new mural will be painted will be revealed later this year. Painting is expected to begin either this fall or early next year.