Whatever it is, the way you tell your story can make all the difference.
Reframing the Canon
A Curatorial Project by Art BaziL
Dates: November 6–13, 2024
Opening Reception: November 9, 2024
Location: Overtown Performing Arts Center | Miami, FL
About the Exhibition
Reframing the Canon is a curatorial project that centers the contributions of Black contemporary artists, placing their work in direct conversation with the Western art historical canon. This exhibition challenges traditional narratives and calls attention to the systems of exclusion that have shaped—and continue to shape—art history.
By reclaiming space and shifting perspective, Reframing the Canon asks:
Who decides what art is valuable? Who gets remembered? And what happens when we tell the story differently?
Artist, Reyna Noriega, hailing from Miami, FL, USA, is a visionary Black artist whose work seeks to redefine the perception of Black art beyond the confines of trauma, elevating themes of joy, peace, and hopeUnmasked Size: 2 ft x 2ft Medium: Acrylic Reyna Noriega Website www.reynanoriega.com Instagram @reynanoriega_
Artist, Eclat Florals brings a fresh perspective to Black artistry in the Western canon by reimagining the role of floristry as an art form rich with symbolism, celebration, and storytelling. Untitled Floral Arrangement Eclat Florals Website: www.eclat-florals.com Instagram: @eclatflorals
Artist, Key Keem is a talented singer, music producer, and instrumentalist who plays drums, piano, and guitar, using his musical gifts as a powerful form of self-expression. His most recent project, Redemption, is an instrumental journey that lets the art of sound communicate raw emotion, leaving the interpretation up to each listener while offering subtle hints through song titles. This project serves as an introduction to the depth of Key Keem’s creativity, showcasing what he can create for both himself and others. His debut album, set for release by the end of 2024, promises to reveal even more facets of his artistry and story. Redemption on Apple music Instagram: Theofficialhakeem
Artist, Jessica Owens Young is a multidisciplinary artist whose work delves into the richness of Black experiences, emphasizing joy, playfulness, and intellectual pursuits.
Artist, Desmond Jones AKA Art Is Dope is a dynamic and multi-talented artist whose work transcends traditional boundaries, integrating visual art with fashion and culture.
Artist, Jade Griffin, originally from Lehigh Acres, Florida, is dedicated to challenging the stereotypes often imposed on Black art within the Western canon. They hope that Black art will be recognized for its diverse expressions, beyond the usual themes of struggle and hardship. They believe Black art shouldn’t be limited to narratives of pain, but instead should celebrate innovation, joy, and the full range of Black creativity that has significantly influenced Western and European culture. Instagram @griffin_.jade
Artist, Mwape BaziL is a multifaceted artist who works across fashion, painting, styling, and interior design. Originally from Guyana, she is a proud immigrant woman making her way in the U.S., drawing on her rich cultural heritage and diverse life experiences to shape her creative voice. Deeply rooted in her faith and hopeful for the future, she weaves themes of resilience, empowerment, and tradition into her work. Her journey, not only as an artist but also as a mother, brings unique perspectives to her art, contributing to her mission to reframe the canon, and to open spaces for new, inclusive narratives.
Handdrawn tote bag by ahsyale.
Artist, Tigga, a.k.a The Mane Gardener. From Baltimore, Maryland, United States is a self-taught artist who has always created but only recently began to see herself as an artist. Her work is deeply influenced by her journey as a Black woman, particularly through her experience with natural hair. The natural hair movement, especially within the loc community, shapes her artistic vision. Using dolls as her canvas, Tigga creates loc installations using afro kinky human hair and crochet needles, reflecting the intricate beauty and symbolism of Black hair. Her art aims to elevate Black hair as a form of art, unlocking memories of joy, play, and self-discovery.
Artist, Tigga, a.k.a The Mane Gardener. From Baltimore, Maryland, United States
Artist, Jade Griffin, originally from Lehigh Acres, Florida, United States of America.
Artist, Elaysha Bazil aka Art BaziL’s journey as an artist was sparked by a creative childhood, heavily influenced by her vibrant mother, whose artistic spirit encouraged her to explore and nurture her own creativity. As a Caribbean American woman, Art BaziL’s perspective is deeply shaped by the rich cultural blend of Caribbean and African American experiences. Her work reflects this, blending colors, textures, and forms that celebrate her heritage.
Artist Oluwaseyi Olaside, a Lagos based creative, multimedia- multimedia visual artist. Is inspired by cubism and impressionism, he creates vibrant, playful pieces that push beyond conventional Black art themes, focusing on joy and connection. His work redefines Black art's role in cultural development, constantly exploring new materials like fabrics and threads among many others.
Artist, Reyna Noriega, hailing from Miami, FL, United States of America.
Artist, Elaysha Bazil aka Art BaziL