by Sydney Toth

“The Art of Living Black” takes viewers on a journey through social inequality and black empowerment. The annual art show has featured, for 23 years and counting, artists of African descent who want to exhibit their heritage, culture and history. The show is up for view until March 8 at the Richmond Art Center (RAC).

This year, a satellite exhibition featuring nine artists from the larger RAC show opened Feb. 21 in Laney college’s June Steingart Gallery. The show will be there through March 15.

At the opening, the warm aroma of sweet chicken and the low sound of indistinct chatter flooded the senses even before the art was visible.

“This exhibit made me feel connected to my culture,” said Laney student Destinee Scott, “It felt like I was coming home.”

The midsize paintings and photographs that line the walls speak to passersby in bold and colorful imagery. Whether the art shares a personal experience or represents a moment in history, stories seem to be pouring into the room.

Orlonda Uffre, RAC curator, also put together the satellite exhibition. She said the arrangement was done more by feel, rather than any specific theme.

The Laney exhibit only a small taste of what you will receive at the main showcase in Richmond. There, 191 artists display art that is also for sale, and all proceeds will be going back to the artists, Uffre said.

Each artist presents a unique perspective on what it means to live Black in today’s society. One such artist is Gene Dominique, whose photography depicts what he sees as the “truth of African American farm life.”

Dominique visited a farm in Grafton, NY, to find the setting for his black and white portraits. He hopes to educate people on the misconceptions of farming as an African American through his images.

“Some people may imagine an elderly African-American man, and I wanted to showcase the large gender and age diversity that is actually present,” Dominique said.

Do yourself a favor — catch the satellite show at Laney before heading over to the Richmond Arts Center to experience the larger exhibition. If you can, help support Dominique and other local artists of our community by purchasing one or more pieces at the RAC.