“Art of Soul” opens Feb. 2 at Gallery 625 – Daily Democrat

YoloArts’ Gallery 625 presents a new group exhibition featuring artwork that focuses on the American experience through an African American lens.

According to a press release from YoloArts, “The Art of Soul” will include abstract and realist paintings, works on paper, mixed media and digital media by regional artists and pioneering legendary artists from across the Sacramento region. It is said to be included.

Regional artists featured include Valerie Brown Trout, Mia Davis, Joha Harrison, Unity Lewis, Lee McCormick, Shauna McDaniels, Cedric Orange, Karen Senefel, Malik Senefel, Aliya Sidke, Includes Jerry Simpson, Urban Sunshine.

Curated in collaboration with Shona McDaniels, executive director of the Sojourner Truth Museum of African Heritage in Sacramento, the exhibition features artists such as the late Dr. Samella Lewis, Dr. Elizabeth Catlett, and contemporary artist Milton Bowens. , Alpha, and other works lent by museums. Bruton, Daphne Burgess, Nahosenai Negasy, TAFA. Dr. Samera’s grandson, Unity Lewis, will be lending additional pieces of her grandmother’s artwork to the exhibition.

In assembling this dynamic group of artists, McDaniels was inspired by their work ethic and creative spirit, as well as the work they all do in their communities, according to the release.

“YoloArts is thrilled to welcome back artist and activist Shauna McDaniels, who we had a solo exhibition with last year, and this time she has brought together an incredible group of artists who bring their own unique stories and styles. ” said YoloArts Creative Director Janice Parnell. . “This show also features pioneers of the Black artist movement, and we are pleased to include these important historical perspectives.”

Held to coincide with Black History Month in February, The Art of Soul celebrates the rich cultural heritage, triumphs and adversities that are part of this nation’s history each year and that helped shape it. honoring the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans. The title of the program also incorporates local history.

“This title was used in the early 1990s for a collaboration of Black artists who worked together to showcase different art forms from the Black community,” McDaniels explained. “In 1990, the first Art of Soul Festival celebrated the visual, performing and performing arts at the former Radisson Hotel.”

Many of the artists and the McDaniels will be attending an opening reception from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 2, in conjunction with the Woodlands First Friday event downtown. Music will be provided by Kevin Welch, guitarist of the band Boca do Rio. Light snacks and Yolo County wine will also be available.

Art of Soul artwork can also be viewed online at yoloarts.org/online-galleries.

Art of Soul will be on view at Gallery 625 until April 2, 2024.