Highlighting Akron's Vibrant Black Arts Scene
Photo by Mull Media
Written by Kyla Decatur & Tyron Hoisten
Unleashing Creativity at East Ave Second Saturday
Located in Akron, the family-owned East Ave Market and Gallery has evolved from a monthly flea market in 2020 to an engaging artistic platform renowned for its Second Saturday events. After reimagining its warehouse into a multi-dimensional gallery space, it now serves as a vibrant stage for a diverse cadre of artists – professional, self-taught, or emerging – to share their talents.
One notable event was the Afrofuturism: Black Lives Will Exist in the Future Exhibition, featuring the remarkable artists Theresa May and Emanuel Wallace. Immersed in a family of musicians, Theresa May emerged as a notable jazz artist in Cleveland, excelling particularly with the trumpet and reviving compositions by Black women.
The exhibition offered a captivating showcase of May's musical prowess and Wallace's exceptional photography skills. Known for his innate ability to capture nature's allure, Wallace has broadened his talents into videography, offering a more immersive and dynamic storytelling medium. This collaborative exhibit aimed to shed light on the persistent and pressing issue of racial injustice.
A Celebration of Artistry at the Black Excellence Art Festival
The First Annual Black Excellence Art Festival, hosted by the BE Arts Collective, was the epicenter of creativity over the Memorial Day weekend. Founders Randi Mull and Stephanie Stewart envisioned this collective as a safe haven for artists to express themselves freely, a vision embodied in the Black Excellence Art Festival.
Welcoming over 1,000 attendees and showcasing the works of 40 local artists and food vendors, the festival demonstrated a rich spectrum of artistic expression – from acrylic artistry and intriguing sculptures to evocative photography. Featured performers Lydia Joy and the Unit Band and local poets also graced the festival, adding a dynamic performance element to the event.
Hosted at Hardesty Park, this festival offered a family-friendly environment with a myriad of activities, including delicious food options, free face painting, invigorating line dancing, and aerobics. It was undoubtedly an event that left an indelible mark on Akron's arts scene.
Celebrating the Power and Potential of Akron's Black Artists
As we look back on these memorable events, it is clear that Akron's art scene has been invigorated by the rich contributions of Black artists. The East Ave Second Saturday events and the Black Excellence Art Festival not only showcased their immense talent but also fostered a sense of community and creative freedom within Akron's artistic landscape.
These experiences serve as reminders of the incredible strength, resilience, and beauty of Black artistry. They emphasize the importance of platforms that embrace diversity, provide safe spaces for self-expression, and challenge us to confront societal issues.
As we move forward, let us continue to support and uplift these local artists who enrich our community with their unique voices and perspectives. As we look towards the future, we are eager to see what the vibrant Akron art scene has in store, knowing it will continue to be a beacon of creativity, inclusivity, and inspiration.
Stay tuned to our blog for more exciting recaps, artist features, and updates about upcoming events. Akron's arts community is not just surviving, it's thriving, and we can't wait to share what's next!
