JACKSONVILLE — If you haven't had the chance to see the "Searching for Augusta Savage" documentary on PBS, which explores the life and legacy of the visionary artist, educator and leader, you'll instead have the opportunity to see the Jacksonville premiere on Saturday, June 29 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the WJCT Soundstage.

Augusta Savage (1892–1962) was a prolific, world-renowned sculptor. Born in Green Cove Springs, she eventually moved to New York City, where she contributed to the blossoming Harlem Renaissance movement. During her life, Savage captured international claims, and her art contextualized the Black American experience. She opened the first gallery in the U.S. dedicated to Black art. 

"Searching for Augusta Savage" contemplateswhy Savage's artwork has been largely erased. While many of Savage's original sculptures have been lost to time, such as her 1939 New York World's Fair monument, "Lift Every Voice and Sing," her legacy lives on and continues to influence aspiring artists. 

The Jacksonville premiere will feature a screening of the director's cut of "Searching for Augusta Savage," followed by a panel discussion on the artist and her legacy.

Following the screening, art historian and curator Dr. Jeffreen M. Hayes, who is featured as the narrator and host for the film, will have a panel conversation with fellow filmmakers Charlotte Mangin and Sandy Rattley.

The 2 p.m. screening and panel will be at the WJCT Soundstage at 100 Festival Park Ave., Jacksonville. The 4 p.m. reception will be at the Yellow House at  577 King St., Jacksonville.

For those interested, register for a free ticket to the premiere and panel at eventbrite.com/e/searching-for-augusta-savage-screening-and-conversation-tickets-916721618037.

"I and the entire team behind 'Searching for Augusta Savage' are thrilled to present the documentary in Jacksonville, where Augusta Savage lived and worked during her life. Our hope with this program is to educate, to create dialogue, and to inspire. Augusta Savage was an artist who centered humanity, community, and advocacy and serves as a model for world builders across disciplines today. We look forward to sharing her incredible story with the Jacksonville community," Hayes said.