An African Caribbean from London who now calls Asheville home, Omileye “Omi” Achikeobi-Lewis is an author, trauma-focused counselor and national SEED Diversity trainer. In her years of teaching mindfulness to children and getting them interested in yoga, she struggled to find a variety of pictures featuring African American youngsters being peaceful and meditating — so she decided to create her own. Though not a trained painter, Achikeobi-Lewis used her then 8-year-old daughter, Omo, as her inspiration and went on to make 18 works to bridge that gap. The result is the exhibition Peace Am I, which opens Saturday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at THE BLOCK off Biltmore. Omi and Omo will serve as hosts, Kid’sYoga teacher/counselor Katie Hadden do arts and crafts with the kids, and Omi will lead a Yography adventure for children and adults, involving “mythical stories, mindful games, art and lessons for life.” $5 for the event. theblockoffbiltmore.com. Photo courtesy of the artist.
Smart Bets: Peace Am I

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