Black Garden takes root at WAG-Qaumajuq

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This article was published 26/07/2024 (759 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The rooftop of WAG-Qaumajuq will transform into a bustling haven of creativity and culture as it hosts the first ever Black Garden event.

The event, a collaboration between WAG-Qaumajuq and Black Artists Winnipeg, will highlight the talents of Black artists across Manitoba. Building on the success of its February fashion show for Black History Month, Black Garden will offer an artisans’ market and performances in a lively atmosphere celebrating the local arts scene.

“We’re thrilled to bring this event to life,” says Olivia Cassie, the 24-year-old founder of Black Artists Winnipeg.

“I started Black Artists Winnipeg after meeting so many talented individuals at a Black History Month event at the University of Manitoba. It was clear there weren’t enough resources for them to showcase their work.”

Cassie, who was born and raised in Winnipeg, used her deep-rooted connections to bridge gaps in the community.

“I felt like I had an advantage that could help bring more people into the local artist scene,” she says.

Her initiative has flourished over the past year, with the partnership with WAG-Qaumajuq playing a crucial role in amplifying Black artists’ voices.

The partnership began serendipitously.

“I met one of the directors of the gallery at the Winnipeg Art Gallery gala. I shared my vision for Black Artists Winnipeg and my hopes to eventually get our own space for events, a gallery and community activities. She loved the idea, and we decided to explore how the WAG could help us achieve those goals,” Cassie says.

On Sunday, attendees can explore a garden market featuring a variety of local Black artisans. Vendors such as Hairbru, Alejandra Barraza Prints, Inspire D’Elyki and Prairie Breeze Folk Arts will showcase their one-of-a-kind creations, ranging from clothing and jewelry to art prints and hair-care products.

Amina Haswell, the creative director and owner of Prairie Breeze Folk Arts Studio, is known for her broom-making skills.

“We believe that harvesting from nature, combined with a little creativity, can produce some of the most beautiful items,” Haswell’s website says.

Other vendors include Shirom Arts Collection, Efe’s Keptar/Iraeday, Warm Heart of Africa, Protocol Streetwear and Vintage Stun, who will sell a variety of handmade goods that reflect their cultural heritage and artistic prowess.

“The market is a fantastic opportunity for these vendors to interact with people, make sales, and get their brands out there. It’s all about creating visibility and opportunities for our community,” says Cassie.

The evening segment of the event starts at 7 p.m. with a performance featuring a lineup of local musicians.

Tomiwa Omolayo, known as Tommyphyll, will bring his genre-blending music style, “afrodiem,” which fuses ’80s synth-pop, Afro beats and classical influences.

“He draws his creative inspiration from his homes in Lagos, Nigeria, and Winnipeg. His performances are always a treat,” Cassie says.

Joining Tommyphyll are DJ Code-E and R&B singer Laurel Chanté.

The idea for Black Garden stemmed from a visit Cassie had to the WAG with Tommyphyll, who also heads Black Professionals in Music.

“We went upstairs to the rooftop garden and thought it would be an amazing space to host an event,” Cassie says.

However, due to the recent heatwave, the market will now be held inside the gallery.

Cassie’s vision for Black Artists Winnipeg extends beyond events such as Black Garden.

“This is just the start. We just want to see where the need lies in the community and see how we can help fill that need. It’s about creating opportunities and making meaningful changes for the community,” she says.

Reflecting on the journey so far, Cassie is optimistic about the future, calling Black Garden more than just an event: it’s a celebration of culture, creativity and community.

“It’s all about building a stronger, more inclusive community through art.”

The garden market will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The rooftop concert starts at 7 p.m. The event is free with regular admission to the WAG-Qaumajuq.

thandi.vera@freepress.mb.ca