YoloArts’ Gallery 625 will host a new group exhibition featuring artwork that focuses on the American experience through an African American lens.
“The Art of Soul” will include abstract and realistic paintings, works on paper, mixed media and digital media from regional artists and pioneering legendary artists from throughout the Sacramento region, according to a press release from YoloArts.
Curated in partnership with Shonna McDaniels, executive director of the Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum in Sacramento, the exhibition will also include artworks on loan from the museum, including from the late Dr. Samella Lewis and Elizabeth Catlett, and contemporary artists Milton Bowens, Alpha Bruton, Daphne Burgess, Nahosenay Negussie and TAFA. Unity Lewis, the grandson of Dr. Samella, will loan an additional piece of his grandmother’s art to the exhibit.
In bringing this dynamic group of artists together, McDaniels was inspired by their work ethic and creative spirit and the work they are all doing in the community, according to the release.
“YoloArts is thrilled to welcome back artist and activist Shonna McDaniels who had a solo show with us last year – and this time she has put together an incredible group of artists bringing their unique stories and styles,” said YoloArts’ Creative Director, Janice Purnell. “The show also includes pioneers of the Black artist movement, and we are excited to include these important historical perspectives.”
“The Art of Soul” coincides with February’s Black History Month, annually honoring the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape the nation while celebrating the rich cultural heritage, triumphs and adversities that are part of the country’s history. The show’s title also has a local history.
“The title was used back in the early 1990s for a collaboration of Black artists that worked together to showcase a variety of art forms in the Black community,” McDaniels explained. “In 1990 the first Art of Soul festival celebrated the visual, performing, and theater arts at the old Radisson Hotel.”
Many of the artists, and McDaniels, will be attending the opening reception from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 2, coinciding with the downtown Woodland First Friday event. Music will be provided by guitarist Kevin Welch from the band Boca do Rio. Light refreshments and Yolo County wine will be available.
The Art of Soul artwork can also be viewed online at yoloarts.org/online-galleries.
The Art of Soul continues at Gallery 625 through April 2, 2024.
