The Harlem Fine Arts Show (HFAS), www.hfas.org one of the nation's largest and most prestigious collections of works (paintings, photographs and sculpture) by African American artists from around the world – both established and emerging – will again be a major Harlem destination during Black History Month. The dazzling exhibition of creative expression runs from Friday, February 25th through Sunday, February 27th at the historic Riverside Church of New York City at 490 Riverside Drive (at 120th Street).
The HFAS is built upon the tradition of the well-loved and well-established Black Fine Arts Show, held for 14 years at New York's Puck Building, which drew audiences from all over the country. "I was honored to pick up and continue what had become a treasured cultural tradition and experience and to hold the show in the Mecca of black culture – Harlem," explains Dion Clarke, JWD Enterprises President and Director of the Harlem Fine Arts Show 2011.
Patrons will appreciate that the biggest – and possibly most attractive – difference between the two shows is that the Harlem Fine Arts Show is dominated by individual artists, rather than galleries; although galleries are certainly represented. Show visitors can both interact with the artists first hand and purchase work directly.
Over the three day weekend, this fabulous show and networking event attracts more than 10,000 people. Over the years, the illustrious list of patrons has included Mayor Bloomberg, Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, Spike Lee and others. As an added component, this year the HFAS is partnering with New York area public and charter schools to provide a forum for cultural exposure for young people. This will be the first time that some children will have had to view authentic fine art. Students will experience the exhibit throughout the day on Friday, February 25 for Art, History and Ancestral Day! In the evening on the same day, HFAS will hold a gala benefiting The Ralph Lauren Cancer Center.
More than 100 artists will be featured, including: Poncho Brown, Leroy Campbell, Robert Carter, Najee, Woodrow Nash and Michele Wood. For details, please visit www.hfas.org. Participating galleries include E&S Gallery of Louisville, Kentucky and Golden Gallery of Denver, Colorado.
