Started by Dr. Naila Keleta-Mae in 2017, Black And Free is an artistic and academic experience that deepens, enlivens and expresses themes of blackness and freedom projecting expansive visions of what that could be for engaged, curious and casual members of the public. Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum will host a three-month Art Exhibition opening on Saturday, November 2 and closing Saturday, February 1, 2025. The exhibition will feature Ontario-based emerging and established Black artists who were commissioned to create new artwork that explores the theme of blackness and freedom.
The exhibition features artists Lillian Allen, Sydné Barnes-Wright, Ken Daley, Alana Decker, Beck Deresse, Damola Disu, Aljumaine Gayle, Janine Ilya, Naila Keleta-Mae, Raechele Lovell, Miss Coco Murray, Simone Patricia, and Àbíkẹ́ The Artist. Each artist’s work tells a unique story that explores multifaceted experiences and expressions of blackness and freedom through historic and contemporary lenses.
For centuries, Black people all over the world have used visual art, literature, performance, theatre, music and other means of expression to imagine and advocate for freedom in their public and private lives. As Principal Investigator of the Black And Free research-creation project, Dr. Keleta-Mae brings together artists, academics, students and the general public through multi-year partnerships with private and public sector organizations.
