By Kathy Chouteau
An opportunity to “take in” some art and also “take it with you” is occurring this Saturday, March 14 from 1-5 p.m. The Richmond Museum of History & Culture will host an “Artist Pop-Up Shop” featuring artists from its Art of the African Diaspora (AOTAD) satellite exhibition.
The museum’s AOTAD satellite exhibition, which will end on March 15, “honors and uplifts the creative achievements of artists of African descent by showcasing their work across multiple venues throughout the Bay Area,” according to the museum. The greater exhibition is marking its 29th year.
The Artist Pop-Up Shop will feature artwork from the creators, such as posters, prints, cards, magnets and more. Featured artists include Asual Aswad, Gathoni Kamau-Devers, Jimi Evins, Karen Janes, He11en C11ark, Jeannette DesBoine, Kimberly Antoinette and Kimberly V. Johnson.
Artwork from the exhibition will also be for sale. The labels in the museum’s AOTAD exhibition will indicate if the piece is for sale. Those wanting to purchase art can connect with museum staff at the event, who will then link a buyer to the respective artist. “Most art on display is available for purchase,” according to the museum, and 100 percent of sales proceeds benefit the artist.
Executive Director Evelyn Santos believes that it’s important for the museum to showcase art because, “Art can be a connector…it also gives us the ability to connect to ourselves. And I think that there’s a lot of value in that, because it creates moments of resiliency.”
She further highlighted that, six years ago, the museum rebranded from being just a “history” museum to “history and culture.” Santos said that while history can sometimes be portrayed by those in power, or whoever has control of the narrative, culture is rather everyday expression. “And so, there are no rules to define it.” Santos said that art also breaks down language barriers, because you’re having to rely on your senses. “So we have found that it creates a bridge for conversation.”
She added, “And that’s really important to have in an institution such as our own, where we’re trying to cultivate a community, and we’re trying to be reflective of that community.”
Find the museum’s Artist Pop-Up Shop indoors and outdoors at 400 Nevin Ave. in Richmond. Questions? Contact (510) 235-7387.
