African contemporary art is the future, according to Alfonso D. Brooks, CEO and founder of AfriKin Art Fair, one of the leading displays of art from throughout the diaspora. The show, which runs Nov. 30 through Dec. 7, brings together some 65 artists from 30 countries.
“African contemporary art has been suppressed and oppressed for so long but it has gotten so good they cannot keep it down,” says Brooks, a sound engineer who began his career in the music industry. Brooks brought his creative flair to the visual arts when he launched the non-profit Afrikin organization in response to what he saw as a void in high quality contemporary African Art shows.
“For too long our art was controlled by institutions that did not have our best interest in mind,” says Brooks. “We are giving emerging artists the opportunity to get on walls where they can get in front of collectors. Where it can be given the value and attention it deserves.”
Creating a welcoming space for savvy collectors and art novices alike is what Brooks and his team set out to do. The AfriKin Art Fair, now in its 11th year, is a personal and impactful experience that attracts tens of thousands from all walks of life. As a testament to their something for everyone approach to art, the show includes paintings, sculptures, photography, digital art and fashion, ranging in price from $100 to a million. In addition, attendees can enjoy music, dance, art talks and savor authentic African cuisine. All events take place at the Scott Galvin Community Center in downtown North Miami.
“We strive to create a space you can come to and feel a sense of home – welcoming, not uninvited,” says the 53-year-old Brooks, a self-described cultural concierge who cultivated his appreciation for the arts growing up in St. Maarten and Brooklyn. “AfriKin Art Fair is a place where you can look, learn and interact with the artists and people from all over the city and the world,” says Brooks. “It’s about kinship, culture and connection across ethnic lines.”
Brooks points out that opportunity to connect isn’t just available during the upcoming art fair, but year-round as the organization offers programming at its North Miami gallery for youth and others interested in the arts.
Just as Miami and South Florida are known as a gateway to the Caribbean, Latin America and Europe, and are known for its nightlife and cuisine, Brooks says Miami is also the new art mecca.
“The energy, pulse and creativity that comes from the diversity that’s Miami makes it a perfect place to foster the arts,” says Brooks, who travels the globe exploring art.
While art has always been a source of liberation for people of color, he says it’s especially important in these times of uncertainty.
“The art sector is a beacon of hope …this is what art does and this is what art is,” says Brooks. “Art and funding for the arts is so important,” he continues. “Art is the conduit to peace and understanding.”
For more information visit www.afrikin.org
