Roots to Rhythm: Scotiabank Caribana Art Exhibit

The bold rhythms found in the African drum, steel pan, jazz, gospel and more are celebrated on canvas in this colourful art exhibition featuring seventy works by acclaimed African-Canadian artists.

Every year, the Association of African Canadian Artists produces an art exhibition that takes place during the Scotiabank Caribana 2008 festival, North America’s largest outdoor event celebrating Caribbean and African Canadian culture. This year’s theme is Roots to Rhythm, and artists have been asked to submit works based on the following poem written by Joan Butterfield, Curator:

We were born to the rhythm of the African drum. We stand proud of the land that we are from.
We were stolen from the rhythm of our motherland. To become enslaved by another man.
We refused to be broken by the rhythm of the trip, Or the threats of a masters whip.
We Sang and we danced to the rhythm of our songs. We disguised the words and did no wrong.
We now jump-up to the rhythm of steel pan. We limbo to the beat of a calypso band.
We live by the rhythm of gospel sounds, that share hope and promise of heaven bound.
We tell stories in the rhythm of jazz, that echoes the sounds and beats of our pass.
We make love to the rhythms of soul. Our Hip hop music is brass and bold.
Our rhythm is rooted deep within our soul, it’s The beat of our heart, and our stories told.

Don’t miss the limited engagement of this visual art journey that showcases the soul of music and the rich artistry of the African Canadian community.