Essex's blessings

Over the years, we've read poems by Essex Hemphill (1957-1995) in various anthologies, including Persistent Voices: Poetry by Writers Lost to AIDS (co-edited by our very own Philip Clark and David Groff) and Freedom in This Village: 25 Years of Black Gay Men's Writing (edited by E. Lynn Harris). But regardless of how much you already know about this luminary of the D.C. arts scene, I believe you'll appreciate "Essex Hemphill: Take care of your blessings," an exhibition at the Phillips Collection that "explores the interdisciplinary relationship between Hemphills writing and visual art." It's on through Aug. 31. (Note: Although the Phillips does charge admission, it also offers free and discounted access on certain nights.)