Photo: FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton, taken by Cameron Wilkinson
Wednesday, February 1st will mark the start of Black History Month.
The Town of Milton has announced that the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton will host an art exhibition showcasing the work of artists Désiré Betty, Omar Hopkinson and the Association of Nigerian Community in Milton (ANCim).
Désiré Betty is an Ontario-based multi-disciplinary artist that has long explored the spiritual serenity that manifests itself through her artistic expression she calls ‘Perpetual Freedom Art.’ Her compositions are mainly focused on figurative art with complimentary abstract pieces. She explores the use of various mediums, such as acrylic ink, aerosol, watercolour, textile and mixed media.
Omar “Oms” Hopkinson was inspired to create and share his passion for art at a young age. As he’s matured, his art has become the medium in which he inspires, draws the best out of his subjects and forms community. Oms reimagines what art means today, painting on all surfaces from canvases, to walls and various structures with a clear understanding of colour and its ability to evoke emotion. Oms’ was also the lead artist for a mural display in the Spice O’ Life parkette at the corner Charles Street and Main Street.
Most recently, both Désiré and Oms were two of ten artists selected to contribute to the “Exclusively Inclusive” traffic box art project that encompasses themes of diversity, inclusion and equity in Milton.
“Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate, honour and reflect on the stories, experiences and accomplishments of Black Canadians as well as recognize our commitment to equal rights, opportunity and freedom from discrimination in Milton and across the country,” says Milton Mayor Gord Krantz. “I encourage the community to visit the Holicim Gallery to appreciate and connect with the works of art created by talented members of the Black community.”
The ANCim is involved in various community activities for children and inspires young minds to express their talents through the arts. In 2021 and 2022, the Heritage and Social Connection Committee of ANCiM organized virtual mentoring classes and through this volunteer process, young artists emerged. The young artists’ exhibitions for Black History Month 2023 aim to preserve and promote cultural heritage based on the theme for the 2021 Proudly Nigerian and 2022 Celebrating Excellence Independence Day celebration.
The exhibition will be displayed at the Holicim Gallery from February 1st to March 4th.
The Holicim Gallery is located at 1010 Main Street East in Milton and is open Tuesdays – Thursdays from noon – 8:00 p.m., Fridays from noon – 5:00 p.m., Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
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