Rediscovering the Roots of Black New Brunswickers: Rhythm and Roots- Community Drum Circle
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
The UNB Art Centre celebrates Black History Month by bringing portraits of notable Black New Brunswickers to the streets of Fredericton. Now in its 5th year, 18 new faces will be added. Banners featuring Black New Brunswickers will be displayed on Regent and Westmorland Streets throughout the month of February in recognition that the struggle for recognition and equality happens every day. In partnership with Downtown Fredericton Inc., this project recognizes the achievements and experiences of Black New Brunswickers and their role in shaping contemporary New Brunswick.
These banners are part of the larger project Rediscovering the Roots of Black New Brunswickers on display at the UNB Art Centre in Memorial Hall from February 7-28. Join them for the opening reception at 5:00 pm on Friday, February 7. This special research project engages UNB students and members of the Black community in bringing to light those Black New Brunswickers who have strived for freedom and equality in a world of prejudice and discrimination. The latest exhibit features the faces and stories of Catherine McMichael, Edward Washington, Reginald Springer, Percy Richards, Percival Grant, Jocelyn Eatmon Stevens, Joel MacPherson, Carole Thompson, Edith Henry, Rose-Marie Stewart and Jennifer Dow.
As part of this celebration join them on February 13 from 5:30-7:00 pm for Rhythm and Roots- Community Drum Circle with Saa Andrew in the auditorium of Memorial Hall. This immersive experience will honour the rich traditions of African drumming, a symbol of community, resilience, and cultural storytelling. Participants of all ages and backgrounds are invited to create rhythmic connections while exploring the powerful role of percussion in the African and Afro-diasporic heritage. Drums will be provided, but feel free to bring your own! This free workshop is held in partnership with the New Brunswick Black Artists Alliance (NBBAA).
Rediscovering the Roots of Black New Brunswickers and the Rhythm and Roots- Community Drum Circle are part of Fredericton’s Frostival celebration.
The UNB Art Centre is located at Memorial Hall, 9 Bailey Drive, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton. The galleries are open 9 am – 4 pm weekdays and during special events. Admission is free to members of the public.
For more information:
UNB Art Centre: Marie E. Maltais, Director, UNB Art Centre mem@unb.ca, (506) 453-4623;
https://www.instagram.com/unb.art.centre/
https://www.unb.ca/artcentre/index.html