Issues that get to the heart of our image and identity as Caribbean people of African descent will be explored, debated, showcased, and celebrated this Black History Month. A group of individuals and institutions have come together to put together a full programme – including radio discussions, a lecture, a visual arts exhibition and creative arts showcase, and more. The community is being encouraged to get involved.
The activities got off the ground even before the month did with the January launch of the Wadadli Youth Pen Prize, a six-year-old competition making a comeback in 2010. Now with a visual arts component, in addition to the literary arts, this competition has to date attracted prize commitments from Colombian Emeralds, Raeburn Generator Services, D. Gisele Isaac, The Daily Observer newspaper, the Art Loft, Harpers, Althea Prince, and the Best of Books. The competition has a February 5th deadline.
Meanwhile, there’s the ‘Africa: Our Story’ radio trivia, coordinated by Kush David, also with prizes to be won. Radio will be the platform as well for two thought provoking discussions. Best of Books’ Barbara Arrindell, writers D. Gisele Isaac and Zahra Airall, and artist Mark Brown will join Observer Radio’s Voice of the People on February 8th to discuss how we see ourselves in the media and arts. A discussion on the symbolism, connection, and perceptions of Africa will follow on February 15th with Cedric Holder, Ammi Ben Israel of the Hebrew Israelites, and other still to be confirmed panelists. The talk comes to a head with a public lecture at the Best of Books at Royal Palm on February 23rd at 6 p.m. Featured speakers on that evening will include El A Kru’s Rohan Hector and activist Vance ‘Bandele’ Joseph ruminating on the impact of media imagery on identity. It promises to be a spirited discussion.
This lecture activity falls within a week of activities organized by the group. Throughout that week, beginning February 22nd, there will be a visual arts exhibition at the Museum – and students, art lovers, and others are being asked to come out. Spearheading the exhibition is Cedric Holder who will show pieces from his own extensive collection of African art, Zimbabwean art collected by Colin Cumberbatch, as well as original creations by the likes of Heather Doram, Mark Brown, and Yagga Yow.
The week climaxes at 7:30 p.m. on February 26th with the Word Up! 2010 creative arts showcase directed by Zahra Airall and featuring her Zee’s Youth Theatre. It’ll mix the literary arts with song and dance, and feature the writings of Althea Prince, Motion, Althea Romeo-Mark, Elaine Olaoye among others. A number of special guest performers and captivating collaborations are anticipated. Word Up! 2010 will be the only paid event and proceeds will benefit both the Museum and Haiti relief efforts.
