Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Appreciating Our Community!

As this year winds down, one season ends, and another begins. I want to take a moment to share my heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring support and encouragement that the Akron Black Artist Guild has received. 

We've had several volunteers roll up their sleeves and pitch in where needed.  Sharing with others what the Guild is about. Artists wanting to contribute, asking, "How can I help" or "Be part," of this work.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Art Documents History

Art has always been a powerful tool for documenting history, reflecting societal values, cultural shifts, and pivotal moments that shape human civilization. Works of art aren't merely expressions of an artist's inner world but often encapsulate the spirit and conditions of a particular time. Through art, we glimpse the past, providing future generations a visual record of the events, ideologies, and cultural dynamics that shaped history.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Artist Spotlight | The Zine Zone

The Zine Zone is an artistic venture that began as a quest for collaboration among 3 neighboring Summit Artspace resident artists - Rob Greer, Sr., Stephanie Stewart, and Kyla Decatur. As an artist, Robert Greer, Sr. is a versatile storyteller, who employs poetry, graphic design and photography to spread hope and inspiration.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Artist Spotlight | Berhane Okantah

Music is about unity and togetherness. These principles apply to people of all ages and backgrounds, and I’ve always enjoyed sharing them with others. Most importantly, I want people to know that everyone has some music or rhythm in them in some way, shape, or form.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Artist Spotlight | Xposyur

My city makes me tender! Legit, makes me melt. It is my hope that the same passion is felt over decades. That the pain, truth courage, and change will never die. I hope one line, stanza, or couplet can help someone see they aren't alone and that there is a reason to press forward.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

It Takes a Village

The African Proverb, 'If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.' Encapsulates the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving long-term success. In today's fast-paced and competitive environment, working effectively with others is more crucial than ever.

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Dara Harper Dara Harper

Working Together to Write Strong

“These sessions will offer enhanced resources with the emphasis of publishing your literary work. The group is inviting more guest authors to share their writing methods and participate in workshops that aim to elevate the quality of the writing process.”

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Artists Teaching Artists

Art education is not just a tool, but a transformative experience that plays a major role in helping the artist value their skills. It's about appreciating the community we work and live in, and immersing ourselves in a culture that fosters exploration and growth.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

The Art of Storytelling

Writers and their stories are so significant that they can take our routine or mundane experiences and swirl them into classic, adventurous, and mystical tall tales with a pen stroke.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Empowering Artist Entrepreneurs

The Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) is rolling out an innovative membership tailored for artists aiming to connect with Akron's influential circles.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Artist Spotlight | Matthew Roberts

When I was a kid, I was dragged along to an audition that my two older sisters were going to. I eventually grew restless just watching and after I went to the back of the auditorium, I started mimicking the dancers on stage.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Artist Spotlight |EbaNee Bond

I believe I have been a poet for eternity. It’s kind of blurry for me to recall when I first got interested but I remember submitting poems to online competitions in the 6th grade.

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Jordyn Austin Jordyn Austin

Cultivating Your Vision as an Artist

As an artist, your vision is what sets you apart from others and makes your work uniquely yours. Cultivating your artistic vision is a continuous and personal process, but it's also one of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

The Guild's Pivotal Role in Amplifying Diverse Voices in Contemporary Art

Lamar Peterson, a local artist specializing in contemporary art, lived close to the epicenter of the unrest. The atmosphere was thick with smoke and tension, making it feel like an apocalyptic scene. Amidst the chaos of protests and looting, Peterson faced another personal challenge…

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Jordyn Austin Jordyn Austin

Bridging the Gap: How to Break into Tech as an Artist

If you're an artist who is passionate about technology, breaking into the tech industry might seem like a challenging endeavor, but this blog is your ultimate guide will guide for successfully bridging the gap between your artistic ability and the world of technology.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Artist Spotlight | Jessica Travis

Jessica Travis primarily identifies as a visual artist who specializes in working with acrylic paint. Her artistry mostly embraces the abstract, incorporating mixed media and elements of impressionism.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Writing Strong

The 'Write Strong' initiative, as part of ABAG's broader endeavors, distinguishes itself through the intimacy of its class sizes.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Artist Spotlight | Derin Fletcher

When Derin Fletcher first began her journey with art, she firmly believed that paint was the only medium capable of truly bringing her work to life. It seemed as though no other medium could match its potential.

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Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG)

Excellence In Review

In the spirit of Juneteenth and the ongoing struggle for racial equality, we recognize the resilient, vibrant, and powerful contributions of our local Black community.

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