Rhythms of the Earth
Gallery Exhibition Date: February 4 - March 1
Closing Reception: February 27, 6-8 pm
Our February Gallery “Rhythms of the Earth” features the incredible works of Gabrielle Songolo and Khiry Tafari.
Gabriell Songolo
My name is Gabrielle Songolo, and I’m a Grade 12 student currently attending Mother Margaret Mary High School. I express myself through acrylic on canvas, a medium that allows me to explore my vibrant outlook on life. At this point in my journey, I am particularly drawn to vivid colors, as they embody my optimism and hope for the future in the world of art. I believe in the power of highlighting the beauty of every living thing, which I strive to integrate into my pieces. I often find myself painting flowers, scenery, and nature, as these subjects resonate deeply with me. I see beauty in vulnerability and expression, recognizing that they are fundamental parts of the human experience. My mission is to create art that brings people together, fostering connection and understanding.
As we celebrate Black History Month, I am inspired to share my unique perspective and experiences as a young Black woman through my art. I hope to continue expressing my feelings, thoughts, and stories on canvas, allowing others to see who I am and what I value. Ultimately, I aim to connect with the world through my paintbrush, inviting viewers to engage with my journey and the beauty of our shared experiences.
Socials: @gab.bymae
Khiry Tafari
The child of an African Canadian woman from Halifax, Nova Scotia, with roots from Africville, Nova Scotia and a Jamaican man from Westmoreland who grew up in Trenchtown. Khiry Crooks is a multi talented artist, best known as 1/2 of the award-winning rap duo Locution Revolution. Khiry is an artist in every sense of the word;from music to visual to acting and dance. Growing up in Beverly on 118th Ave, Khiry is a staple, a representative & leader in the community. From hosting Wildstyle Wednesdays to Hip Hop Night at the Carrot, one of the pillars that brought Hip Hop in the Park festival to Edmonton, teaching Hip Hop kulture at Grant McEwan to Edmonton Youth Offenders Centre, becoming a professional wrestler; wrestling for Real yCanadian Wrestling and Prairie Wrestling Alliance, and a feature artist (twice) with the annual 5 Artist 1 Love with his visual art being showcase at the Alberta Art Gallery. Khiry Crooks is one who thrives creatively on making his dreams reality yet his best accomplishment and creations are his three children: twins Keyon and Nitaljah (24) and Jahlel (10) for who he models his role. His culture, his community, his commitment, Khiry is a proud product of Edmonton Beverly and 118.
A Rhythms of the Earth will be on display from February 4 - March 1, 2025. Please join us for the closing reception Thursday, February 27 from 6-8 pm.