Unveiling the 2nd Annual Exhibition: Bridging Africa and Brooklyn

Join us in collaboration with the office of Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams for the 2nd Annual Exhibition, a celebration of the profound connections between the people of Africa and the vibrant Brooklyn community. At the heart of this historic event is the remarkable collection of Eric Edwards, one of the largest in the United States, carefully curated over the last forty-four years.

A proud Brooklynite and alumnus of Brooklyn Tech and CCNY, Mr. Edwards has assembled one of the nation’s finest collections of African art and artifacts. During this exhibition, he, alongside other experts, will delve into the cultural significance of African art for individuals of all backgrounds and ethnicities. The discussion will explore the art’s creation, its utilitarian, religious, and spiritual purposes, and its pivotal role in shaping contemporary modern art.

The formal collection of African art by museums in NYC and Europe traces back to the early 20th century, with influential artists like Basquiat, Picasso, Braque, Klee, and Matisse incorporating African art images into some of the greatest modern masterpieces. Present-day artists such as Otto Neals and Danny Simmons continue to recognize the aesthetic qualities of sacred wooden sculptures and masks crafted by African artisans. The profound impact of these influences is evident in the contemporary creations featured in this exhibition.

Building on this inspiration, eleven talented contemporary artists will unveil their latest works, directly inspired by the Eric Edwards collection. Through their art, they bridge the gap between the past and the present, showcasing how the inspiration that defines humanity transcends time. Join us as we witness the enduring power of artistic expression in this captivating exhibition.