A new art exhibit at Newmarket’s Old Town Hall aims to highlight the work, experience and heritage of Canadians of African descent, from the pre-colonial period to the modern day.
The exhibit is entitled “The Heart of Africa: Retracing Our History.” Three local creative forces composed the exhibit using a variety of media to comment on their own identity and heritage. Adeyami Adegbesan uses photography to create “Afro-futuristic portraits that embody history, future and culture all in one.” Ekow Nimako uses Lego bricks to create unique sculptures that deal with mature historical subjects. Finally, Coco Collective is an intergenerational group of Toronto dancers and artists, founded by Coco Murray, specializing in African and West Indian styles.
The Heart of Africa is part of Newmarket’s commemoration of Black History Month. The month of February will also see special presentations, workshops, and food events. The three entirely different projects the event encompasses suggest the richness and diversity of art within the Greater Toronto Area, much of which challenges and interrogates the concepts of identity and hybridity. Artists address these topics using diverse media like painting, sculpture, graphic design, dance, film, banner printing, music and performance art.
The Old Town Hall gallery will present The Heart of Africa from January 29 to February 22. Admission is free for all visitors.
Location
1101 Nicholson Road
Units 2 & 3
Newmarket, ON L3Y 9C3
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Hours
Mon: 9:00 - 5:00
Tue: 9:00 - 5:00
Wed: 9:00 - 5:00
Thu: 9:00 - 5:00
Fri: 9:00 - 5:00
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed