AFRICA INTERNATIONAL HOUSE PRESENTS

“MY IDENTITY”

Exhibit celebrates Chicago Artists Month; Featuring Liberian artist, Martin Zeinway

My Identity

Opening Reception
October 14, 2011
6-8p

Exhibit Run Date
October 6-November 13, 2011

Curator: Fantah Celah
Cost: Free

The Center for Contemporary African Art & Culture
6200 S. Drexel
Chicago IL. 60637
773.955.ARTS (2787)

The search for one’s true identity is humanity’s major quest in life.

‘My Identity’ is a collection of paintings that explores the dimensions of the soul. They depict the self-examination of the mind, analyzing the past, and conquering painful memories. This exhibition is a group show, featuring Martin Zeinway & Dale Washington.

This exhibition highlights the differences in people and life experiences. It could also be used as a message and healing tool for the community. Depictions of war and sadly reminiscent of the city streets, these are the past/ present experiences that are ripe for critical social analysis.

Then it also shows how to find our identity by individual choices instead of letting society or circumstance define individuals identity.

Martin Zeinway, Artist Statement
“I am more of a story teller. Most of my art work deals with my experience during the war in Liberia. My life experiences I believe influence my artwork and future as an Artist. This I will pass on to my students. During my art making, I enjoy the process the most. Just the fact that you have to think of different ways to get your thoughts, emotions, and ideas to tell your story through art. Enjoy the story! These are some whom have inspired me and influenced my artwork; Cheri Samba, Charles White, as well as Kwesi Owusu-Ankomah who was born in Secondi, Ghana in 1956 shortly before that country achieved Independence from British colonial rule. His artistic career began with studies at the College of Art (Ghanatta) in Accra. Other artists who has influence my art are Larry Rivers, Faith Ringgold, Goya, Jasper Johns, and David Salle.”

Today is the last day of the Festival, and there’s still so much excitement left!

INDIA ARIE CLOSES OUT THE AFA 2011–DON’T MISS IT!

Cora Coleman-Dunham former drummer for Prince, the Black Girls Rock Awards Show…and currently touring with Beyonce!

Catch the beat!

Cora also performs her encore solo on the Dee Parmer Woodtor main stage 7:50p tonight before India Arie takes the stage!

Cora will also be a featured author in the Author and Book Pavilion at 5p to discuss her book Gathering A Greater Understanding (GAGU): The Ultimate Life Guide for Youth. Bring your youth group for inspiration and exposure to this phenomenal talent.

Nigerian Songbird and KORA Award-winner Kefeee, opens the stage for India Arie tonight. Don’t miss her first American performance on the Dee Parmer Woodtor Stage at 6p.

Dee Palmer Woodtor Main Stage Schedule

Crowning Grand Baba and Grand YeYe!

Stop by the NBC 5 booth- station personalities, Rob Elgas, Lauren Jiggets, and Christian Farr take time to chat with loyal viewers!

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and University of Chicago is getting you fit and healthy. Stop by the Health and Wellness Pavilion for free screenings and exercise demonstrations. Get fit!

Head over to the Africa Channel booth for a chance to win a “Know Your Heritage” DNA kit! Exclusive African Festival of the Arts content on Xfinity Cable. Local channels 133 or 168.

2011 African Festival of the Arts Featured Artist is Dana Easter. Dana has grown up in the Festival family since its inception. We are proud of her artistry and her unique wearable arts and fashions. It is with great pride that her art work is featured as the theme piece for this year.

Click here to view Dana’s work

India Arie

http://www.indiaarie.com/

The 2011 African Festival of the Arts proudly presents India Arie Sept. 5, 2011 (Labor Day). Stay tuned for updates on confirmed line-up and performers. In the meantime, enjoy video of Chaka Khan and other performances from 2010.

Bootsy Collins, the “Man Who Put Bass In Yer Face” headlines main stage Saturday , Sept. 3

Click here to go to Bootsy’s Website

http://www.mary-mary.com/us/home

Mary Mary headlines Dee Parmer Woodtor Main Stage on Sunday Sept. 4!

Visit our booth to win a “Know Your Heritage” DNA kit. Exclusive African Festival of the Arts content on Xfinity Cable. Local channels 133 or 168.

Check out the Author and Book Pavilion featuring New York Times Best-Selling author and R&B superstar, Tyrese, who has penned “How To Get Out of Your Own Way.”  

22nd African Festival of the Arts Presents Cora Coleman-Dunham

Cora Coleman-Dunham former drummer for Prince, the Black Girls Rock Awards Show…and currently touring with Beyonce!

Give the Drummer Some!
Don’t miss her on the grounds of 2011 African Festival of the Arts Labor day weekend Sept. 2-5 Washington Park!

Catch the beat!

Cora performs solo on the Dee Parmer Woodtor main stage: Sunday, Sept. 4 at 7:50 and again Monday, Sept. 5

Dee Palmer Woodtor Main Stage Schedule

Cora will be a featured author in the Author and Book Pavilion   on Sunday to discuss her book Gathering A Greater Understanding (GAGU): The Ultimate Life Guide for Youth.  Bring your youth group for inspiration and exposure to this phenomenal talent. 

Catch her in Chronicles of Queen Cora (2011, 18min, NR) is a unique look into the world of the signature vater drumstick artist performing with Beyonce and Prince. Learn what inspires her, drives her, and made her one of genre’s elite four in Kick, Snare, Hat: The Superstar Drummers of Hip Hop and R&B (2008, 117 min, NR).
Showtime: 4:30pm on Saturday, September 3 in the ICE Theater Film Pavilion

Click here to view a Sneak peek of Cora Coleman-Dunham performing 

Kefee-Wildly popular, Nigerian sensation & KORA Award-winning  songbird opens main stage for India Arie, Labor Day