Celebrating Toronto Black Artists

"So, do you know Drake?"

As someone who travels a lot to the U.S., I get asked this a lot and I know I am not the only one. I am definitely a big fan, but I always think about how incredible it will be when people can run down a list of brilliant Black creative talent. From WondaGurl to Lillian Allen, Toronto is as intergenerational as it is diverse and that is why I am so excited for the 'Scratch & Mix Project'

'The exhibition

Between April 18 and August 30, 2015, the Art Gallery of Ontario will host the Scratch & Mix Exhibition. It will feature the work of 11 young artists who participated in the project’s GTA-wide youth arts competition and were selected by a jury. Their work offers each artist’s unique take on the theme “Empowering the Black Community.” Each piece is also inspired by the AGO’s Jean-Michel Basquiat: Now’s The Time exhibition and reflects a collaboration between the artists and a seasoned artist mentor.

On the AGO's site, you can check out bios of all 11 artists.

Many of the artists have great websites or Instagrams including Komi Olaf. Below is an incredible representation of one of Toronto's most loved artists Amanda Parris.

The artists work span across multiple mediums, including photography from artists like Ebti Nabag & Jah Grey. From His site:

Arists come from a variety of creative backgrounds including students of the transformative watah school, headed by D'bi including Angelique Jordan.

The launch is on April 18th and should be incredible. Learn more here.

French language interpretation is available upon request.