As Black History Month comes to a close, Fanshawe College is ensuring that Black voices and creativity remain in the spotlight. One of the key events in this year’s celebrations is the Express Yo’Self art show, a collaborative effort by the Center for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and the Fanshawe Student Union.
The exhibit, currently on display at the Siskinds Gallery, showcases artwork from students and staff, focusing on themes of identity, culture, and resilience.
Mauricio Osorio, Project Coordinator for EDI, says the goal of the event is to create a space where Black artists can be recognized and celebrated within the college community.
“We’ve always wanted to celebrate Black art at the college, both from students and staff,” Osorio says.
The initiative has been in the works for some time, with organizers reaching out to the Fanshawe community through social media and My Fanshawe to encourage artists to submit their work.
“We reached out through social media and My Fanshawe for submissions from artists,” Osorio adds.
The Art show will wrap up with a celebration and the closing event will feature live music from a Black musician, refreshments, and awards for the top three artworks. Organizers hope this tradition will continue to grow in future years.“We hope more people of color submit art every year and showcase their creativity,” says Osorio.
While Black History Month is ending, Fanshawe College is committed to continuing conversations about diversity and inclusion through similar events throughout the year. The EDI department has already planned upcoming art shows, including one for Indigenous artists in September and another for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in October.
