Art remains a sacred space where voices can breathe life into communities. And Art Africa Miami 2019 will inject this renewing energy in spades, as they return to Overtown.
Founded in 2011 by architect Neil Hall, Art African Miami celebrates a spectrum of artists across the black diaspora. And as a historic and iconic black neighborhood in Miami, Overtown became the perfect home for the fair.
“From the beginning, I knew that this art fair would be the anchor to help contribute to strengthening the cultural identity of Historic Overtown, as well as its resurgence as a cultural hub,” says Hall. “The arts and culture are essential for building a community, supporting development, and contributing to economic opportunity. Collectively, the arts and culture enable understanding of the past and envisioning of a shared, more equitable future.”
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this year’s show offers 2019 a slew of exciting artists. Under this year’s theme “A Retrospective” commemorates nine years of social justice through diasporic arts. The show also seeks to encourage individuals to question injustices and inspire a call to action. “Art has always been a tool to claim space, build power, and to question the injustices that have shaped our social experiences,” says Hall.
2019 Art Africa Art Artists:
This year’s roster of talents includes: Anthony Burks, Byran McFarlane, Ayo Filade,Carl Craig, Marvin Weeks, Johnny Ray Williams,Doba Afolabi, Emilio Martinez, Gene Tinnie,Kofi Kayaga,Najee Dorsey, Phillipe Dodard, Solomon Adufah, Maximo Caminero,Turgo Bastien, Sergio Garcia,George Endozie, Chris Clark, Tierra Armstrong,Carlos Salas,Evita Tezeno,Jose Bedia, Miles Regis,Tracy Guiteau, Patricio Rodriguez, Franklin Sinanan,Jerry Vallias-Jean, Carl Montes,Jason Fleurant and Weldon Ryan.
In the last nine years, these artists have become recognized as masters in their respective fields. These artists’ works have been shown in Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and the Caribbean.
“We invite you to this year’s exhibition to revisit and reassess the works that have been a part of the transformation of art not only in Overtown but also in Miami,” says Hall. “Overtown, the ‘Harlem of the South’ is in the midst of a renaissance. There is now an understanding that art plays a significant role in our community.”
Location for this year’s Art Africa Miami Fair-Plaza at the Lyric- 919 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33136
