EVENT: “What A Bam Bam” Puts A Spotlight On Caribbean Art in Toronto

It’s no secret that Caribbean culture runs deep in the veins of Toronto, with the community’s presence constantly shifting conversations about what it means to be Canadian. Marking the 50th anniversary of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival (more affectionately & forever known as Caribana), What A Bam Bam serves as a way to reflect on the ways the Caribbean diaspora has changed the landscape of this city — and the world. A mixed media art show curated by JaeFiasco and Art + Tax, it features the work of visual artists and photographers including Taj Francis, Jalani Morgan and more. The opening reception  at Blank Canvas on July 27th, featuring sounds from Toronto’s DJ Smartiez, also serving as the kick-off to the show’s week-long home as part of Nia Centre For The Arts’ Blowout Fest. The show, powered by LargeUp.com, Appleton Estates, Spacefy, HerCollective Media and Nia Centre of the Arts will also feature a special display by Bombax Carnival Costume Collection.

In conjunction with this event, sponsor Spacefy will be giving away a $100 voucher towards a rental of any creative space on their platform to a lucky winner. Follow their Instagram and Twitter page for more details, and read on for background details on each of the featured artists.

Taj Francis is a Jamaica-based artist who blends island aesthetics, Japanese Manga & pop art to create vibrant work.

Toronto’s Martika Jabari is a conceptual visual artist uses elaborate sets, natural light and digital production and post-production mediums.

Nathalia Allen is a multi-talented creative director, photographer and founding member of the creative agency GXXRLS, and has most notably done work for brands like Nike and Adidas.

Jalani Morgan is a photographer, visual historian and photo editor who is known for his editorial, documentary and gallery work focusing on social issues and current world affairs.

McFresh Creates is an illustrator and designer using bright colours and bold outlines in both his art pieces and clothing selections, referencing pop culture and almost exclusively depicting women of colour.

Jacqueline Comrie Garrido (JComrieArts) is an award-winning, Panamanian fine artist, whose vibrant paintings, prints and large scale murals have been transforming dull indoor and outdoor spaces for communities in Canada and abroad.  

Sarah Quildon, who goes by ORANGEinal, is a visual artist mostly focusing on women, animals and pop culture (i.e. video games, comics etc.) using markers, watercolours and acrylic paints.

For more information and to RSVP, visit here.