There’s an upcoming exhibition at an art gallery in North Vancouver that expresses cultural identity of Black artists over the years. The exhibition, “As We Rise: Photography from the Black Atlantic” will be featured at The Polygon Gallery. These photographs that are going to be showcased have important concepts that are identified. Dr. Kenneth Montague founded The Wedge Collection in Toronto back in 1997. The purpose of Montague’s artistic endeavors is to collect and exhibit art that explore Black identity. The Wedge Collection is Canada’s largest privately owned collection that is committed to support and appreciate Black artists.
The title of the exhibition was inspired by a phrase that Dr. Kenneth Montague’s father used to say. “Lifting as we rise.” Meaning, even with personal success, it’s important to consider how to help the community that we belong to. After all, there is a sense of empowerment that comes from helping others when you can help yourself. The photographs from this exhibition are collected from Black Artists from different places and times. The photographs are taken by Black Artists and the subjects of the photographs are from the same community. The subjects are aware of the camera but the expressions that are captured by the photographers are candid.
The photographs from this exhibition are collected from over two decades. It shows the different elements and influences that inspire the Black community. There are several elements and characteristics in the photographs that explore Black culture with regards to community and identity. I think that the style of clothing in the subjects is the most noticeable aspect from these photographs. It helps with understanding how time and places, influence the identity and community of the artists. Dr. Kenneth Montague’s commitment to supporting and inspiring Black Artists make him an important figure in this space. His personal success has only inspired him to give people from his community the opportunity to express themselves and also motivate others to do the same.