A New Experience in Black Art: The Black Art Expo

Witness the rise of a new beginning: the Black Art Expo offers Black artists the spotlight. The first Black Art Expo is set to take place on August 1st, 2021 at the Georgia International Convention Center and will be presenting at the Black Beauty Expo. The show will feature 45 Black visual artists, each showcasing unique work that highlights their areas of expertise. 

Show founder and creative entrepreneur Kyra Bond shares her thoughts about the event and the community she aims to empower.

What community have you built with the artists featured at the event? How can one be a part?

Inclusiveness is a key component of the Black Art Expo as too often, art spaces are so highly selective that only a select few voices are heard. The Black Art Expo accepts artists of all backgrounds and levels of experience which is the beauty of the event. There is no entry exam or interview to get in the door and acknowledge the dedication artists offer to our communities. The selectivity of museums and galleries stands in stark contrast to this inclusive environment. Providing easy access to opportunities is the first step towards growing the Black art community. I consider the Black Art Expo to be the best of both worlds: a gallery-style trade show.

What was it like building the show from the ground up?

I started planning the expo my senior year of high school and am thrilled to see it finally come to life as I enter my sophomore year of college. The show started with a vision: dozens of talented Black artists coming together to support one another and build their own community. A fairly simple concept, I set out to confirm for myself the expansiveness of the Black Art industry and took a chance to explore its depths. Coming into the industry has revealed a lot unexpected misconceptions as well as oversights. Thankfully, with the guidance of peers and mentors, I was able form my vision into something tangible for all to experience.

What will the Black Art Expo do for Black artists? Who benefits?

The show benefits all who participate. Exhibitors are encouraged to sell artwork directly to consumers at the event. When exhibitors are not busy selling, the event becomes a pavilion to exchange ideas and share creative thoughts with attendees and other exhibitors. Walking through the show is great for networking and standing in the presence of hundreds of other artists breeds inspiration.

Will the Black Art Expo be returning? Is there anything planned for international artists and audiences?

The Black Art Expo will be returning and expanding to several cities across the United States. International audiences can begin to prepare for an experience as well! Whether through digital media or live events, we seek to reach Black artists overseas and create a worldwide network of inspiring creative entrepreneurs. Extending opportunities through the Black Art Expo, Black Art Magazine, and Black Art Association is on our agenda.

Thoughts on the future of Black Art?

The future of Black Art is now! Now is the time to put yourself out there, put your work on display, and prove your value to the world. New opportunities are on the horizon and they do not end with the Black Art Expo. Black Art Magazine and the Black Art Association are eager to strengthen the presence of Black art in the world.