I'm very proud to be a part of Art of the African Diaspora (AOTAD) exhibit since its beginnings! Join us Saturday, January 25th for the kickoff event – the Artist’s Reception. It’s our exciting annual art event, a ‘consistent celebratory event’, rich with cultural heritage. But how do you get around, how to get the most from it all? There’s the compelling art, my fellow talented artists to visit, the reception, awards, open studios, satellite shows, artist’s talks. How does it all work? - some ask.
Navigation Guide:
Here's my guide to navigating it all - getting the most out of this treasure trove of expression and inspiration! Every art form imaginable ~ painting, photography, sculpture, drawings, ceramics, mixed media, fabric art and more, right in our own backyard. Immerse yourself in local art, it's excellent for the soul, state of mind and more....So needed today! Let's GO!
First stop: Artist's Reception:
2025 marks our 28th year of AOTAD, with original artwork by 130+ artists of African descent. The kickoff event is our upcoming Artists Reception on January 25th, (11a-12:30p Artists Talks), 1p - 3p Reception. Each artist exhibits one piece of art (most for sale) at the Richmond Art Center (RAC) Main Gallery, 2540 Barrett Ave, Richmond, California. It's a captivating, compelling, oh so colorful sampler of our work - and preview of more to be seen at your next step: Satellite and Open Studios.
Roadmap/Navigating:
Pick up a beautiful souvenir AOTAD Program booklet while at the reception, created by fellow artist and exquisite graphic designer, Renata Grey or from one of the artists. It lists each artist, their media, contact info, plus great general background, history, special tributes and is your roadmap and guide to seeing all the artist's satellite or open studios.
Open Studios / Satellite Shows:
Visitors can then plan their days to view full collections of each artist’s work at the ‘Satellite’ and/or Open Studios - events at venues in Oakland, Richmond, Dublin, Concord and other locations. Open studios allow visitors to get close and personal - meet the artists in their artsy setting & see more art pieces. I love visiting the studios as well as participating in them. Here’s AOTAD’s Facebook page for info: https://www.facebook.com/Art-of-The-African-Diaspora-104735004408467/. Warning: plan your time, as the group shows take more time to stop, view, chat! Oh, did I say, "Buy the Art"? Yes! A huge thank you goes out to the leads, curators, steering and advisory committees and RAC for all the work and support!
Having been involved as an artist for 28 years, I say YOU MUST experience this local treasure! It is the longest running annual event of its kind in the San Francisco Bay Area (maybe the nation?) to feature the largest pool of talented artists of African descent. The network of artists is incredible, camaraderie among artists and supporters - priceless! Everyone is welcomed to get truly immersed in our diverse African & African American history, the stories, depictions and the creative freedom in art of all forms. Audiences love attending. It’s an annual event so you won’t want to miss the action in February, March and longer. Join us and be inspired!
Creatively yours, Pat P.