Living Portraits: Celebrating Black artists in Edmonton
January 29, 2026
Join us this Saturday for the unveiling of LIVING PORTRAITS, a new exhibit at City Hall celebrating 20 Black artists in Edmonton. Curated by Darren Jordan, the public art display invites you on a journey of visibility, curiosity, and connection.
Everyone is welcome to join us for the launch from 1:00 – 3:00 pm on January 31. Bring your family and friends along! The launch is a great opportunity for all ages, including families, to start Black History Month. In addition to being among the first to interact with the exhibit, at 1:30 pm, you can hear about this special project from Mayor Andrew Knack, City Manager Eddie Robar, EAC CEO Renee Williams, and curator Darren Jordan. The afternoon will also include light refreshments from Gen X Caribbean Bakery and a DJ set by Mr. Kou.
Please join us to celebrate these talented artists and the many people who contributed to this project.
LIVING PORTRAITS Launch: January 31 from 1:00 — 3:00 pm at City Hall
This is a free event, but RSVPs are appreciated! To RSVP, please email eacweekly@edmontonarts.ca.
More about LIVING PORTRAITS
Exhibition dates: January 31 — June 16, 2026
Across five curved panels, viewers encounter portraits of Black artists that unfold in three stages. LOOK invites recognition — presenting the artists with dignity and stillness, asking viewers to reflect on how Black presence is seen in public space. APPROACH rewards curiosity, revealing more personal images that highlight individuality, joy, and creative practice. ENGAGE invites conversation through augmented reality, where artists speak in their own voices about their lives, neighbourhoods, and culture in Edmonton.
This exhibition moves beyond representation toward relationships. It affirms that visibility alone is not enough — true belonging begins with attention, proximity, and listening.
Developed within the framework of the City of Edmonton Anti-Black Racism Action Plan and Edmonton Art Council.
Curated by Darren Jordan. Sculpture designed by Shoko Cesar.
Participating artists:
Garfield Morgan, Richard Lipscombe, Lisa Mayes, Arlo Maverick (Marlon Wilson), Titilope Sonuga, Cherelle George, Cameron Browne, Althea Cunningham, Fetsum Tecelmariam, Malcolm Azania (Minister Faust), Alison Clarke, Thomas Alexander (The Voice), Tololwa Mollel, Gabriel Angelo, Kyle Smith (InkFable Media), Sterling Scott, Mpoe Mogale, Shaihiem Small, Christopher Peacock, and Baylon Kaiki.
