This project, in collaboration with Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) and itsCenter for Art and Community Partnerships (CACP) honors the history of Elizabeth Freeman, the first enslaved African American woman to win her freedom in Massachusetts.

This celebration of the power and role of public art in storytelling showcases student-created portraits and scenes that re-envision Elizabeth Freeman beyond her historic portrait—from the courtroom where she won her freedom to the journey that defined her legacy. The artwork was created by MassArt students in Professor Irena Roman’s “Professional Illustration for the Community” course, which integrates meaningful nonprofit partnerships into students’ learning experiences,linking creative practice to the public good through projects in public art, education, and storytelling.

“Projects like this demonstrate the transformative power of community-engaged learning,” said Elena Belle White, Director of the Center for Art and Community Partnerships at MassArt. “Students applied their creative skills in partnership with the Du Bois Freedom Center while helping to share Elizabeth Freeman’s story in ways that are engaging, accessible, and resonant for contemporary audiences. By exploring local history and working alongside community partners, students gained invaluable experience in listening, research, and storytelling—discovering how their creative practice can deepen understanding, strengthen connections, and bring overlooked histories to life.

The exhibit kicks off a full summer of events and conversations for DFC centered on Elizabeth Freeman’s story including a panel conversation “Enslavement and Freedom: Elizabeth Freeman and the American Revolution”, on July 15 at The Mount and the debut of a special new work “178, The Story of Mumm Bett” with the Berkshire Theatre Group. Each event is designed to discover and interpret Freeman’s life and legacy, and examine the growing movement to honor her memory. 

The project will culminate in the unveiling of a permanent story-telling kiosk co-designed with The University of Massachusetts, Amherst and their W.E.B. Du Bois Center and featuring two pieces of art from the students at MassArt. The kiosk will be installed at Great Barrington Town Hall, the exact site of the courthouse where in 1781 Elizabeth Freeman’s case was heard and where she won her freedom.

The Du Bois Freedom Center invites the public, visitors, education and civic groups to join us as we reflect on Elizabeth Freeman’s remarkable life and story and consider what her courage means for our understanding of liberty and equality in America today.

“This partnership embodies the spirit of the Du Bois Freedom Center—where creativity and history meet to advance freedom,” saidDr.John D. Lloyd, Interim Executive Director. “At the Du Bois Freedom Center, education and inspiring the next generation to know and share history is at the heart of all we do. This project from start to finish was student led and student driven both at MassArt and UMass. We are so excited to help foster the next generation of storytellers with this project“

About Elizabeth Freeman

Born “Mum Bett,” Elizabeth Freeman became the first African American woman to win her freedom through the Massachusetts courts in 1781. Her case inspired a wave of “freedom suits” that led the state’s Supreme Judicial Court to abolish slavery in 1783. Upon gaining her freedom, she took the name Elizabeth Freeman, signifying her independence.

About The Du Bois Freedom Center

The Du Bois Freedom Center honors the legacy of civil rights pioneer Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois and celebrates the Berkshires’ rich Black heritage. Located at the historic Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church in Great Barrington—where Du Bois was born and raised—the Center is the first museum and living memorial in North America dedicated to his life and ideas.

As a hub for education, scholarship, and community engagement, the Du Bois Freedom Center is more than a museum—it is a living space for reflection, learning, and cultural exchange. Through exhibitions, programs, and partnerships, DFC connects local history to global conversations on democracy, equity, and freedom, advancing Dr. Du Bois’s vision for a just and educated society.

About Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt)

The only independent public college of art and design in the country,Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) was founded in 1873 in response to a bold idea: art and design are essential to our daily lives, and key to improving our society and economy. What began as a school to teach drawing is today a bold, comprehensive art and design institution that spans 18 undergraduate and nine graduate programs, certificates, continuing education, and post-baccalaureate study. 

About the Center for Art and Community Partnerships (CACP)

The Center for Art and Community Partnerships (CACP) at MassArt connects the creativity and energy of the college with the vibrant neighborhoods and cultural ecosystems of broader communities. Through programs that center collaboration, curiosity, and care, CACP works alongside artists, students, educators, and community partners to co-create projects that foster belonging, amplify local voices, and celebrate the role of art in civic life.

“Elizabeth Freeman Reimagined” will run from June 20-October 2, 2026 at:

The Du Bois Freedom Center History and Visitor Center

309 Main Street Great Barrington, MA 

For more information  Visit: https://www.duboisfreedomcenter.org/

For press inquiries please email: office@duboisfreedomcenter.org

Source: The Du Bois Freedom Center