Black History Month Weekend Activities at the Varley
Black History Month Weekend Activities at the Varley Art Gallery of Markham
Celebrate Black History Month with the Varley Art Gallery of Markham! Join us as we honour the past, celebrate the present, and embrace the future through art and culture. Discover a rich array of weekend activities throughout February:
Black History Month: Reading Series
Saturdays, February 3, 10, and 24 | 2 to 2:30 PM | Free | Registration not required.
Drop in for an informal reading in the Varley’s Introduction Gallery. Readings will be drawn from Pioneers of the Caribbean by Ingrid V. Lambie and Patricia L. Tully, and from Stories from the Krib by Ingrid V. Lambie, Patricia L. Tully, and Angola Charles.
A special book sale will be held during the event. Stories from the Krib is available for $25.00 each, while Pioneers of the Caribbean can be purchased for $30.00 each. Enjoy knowing that 20% of all sales contribute to fundraising efforts to support Afro-Caribbean home for seniors.
Black History Month: Silent Art Auction
Saturdays and Sundays, February 3, 4, 10, 11, 24, and 25 | 2 to 4 PM | Registration not required.
The Silent Art Auction will feature framed paintings by local artist Dawn Brotherton, along with pieces donated from a senior’s collection of Afro-Caribbean art by artists Herbie Rose, Bernard Reid, and a commissioned work by Expo 87 artist Alexander Cooper. Proceeds support the Afro-Caribbean home for seniors.
Black History Month: Bob Marley Tribute
Sunday, February 4 | 2 to 4 PM | Free | Registration not required.
Enjoy casual musical performances in the Varley lobby throughout the afternoon, presented by Markham vocal artist Noel Hugh. Presented in collaboration with the Cornerstone Church community.
About Noel Hugh:
Noel Hugh spent over fifteen years as a DJ, serving various local communities, including weddings and festivals, notably within the Hakka Chinese Community. He showcased his talent on a broader stage by participating in the Chartwell Senior Star Competition in 2013, representing Markham and earning a spot as a finalist. His performances have graced renowned venues like the Markham Theatre and Scotiabank Theatre in Niagara Falls. Recently, Noel has been captivating audiences at local events and summer festivals with his musical prowess.
Black History Month: Fashion Show
Sunday, February 11 | 2 to 4 PM | Free | Registration not required.
Experience a dynamic fashion show and music in the Varley lobby, presented by members of the Cornerstone Church community. Featuring designs by Bridget Abioye, a fashion designer from Nigeria.
About Bridget Abioye:
Bridget Abioye is a fashion designer hailing from Nigeria, boasting over a decade of hands-on experience in crafting bespoke clothing. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of designs, from traditional to modern Western fashions, including ready-to-wear outfits. With a specialty in wedding gowns and bridal party attire, Bridget takes pride in curating unique looks that reflect her clients’ individual styles and aspirations for their special occasions.
Black History Month: Steel Pan Performance
Sunday, February 25 | 2 to 4 PM | Free | Registration not required.
Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of steel pan music performed by pannist Daryl Williams. Presented in collaboration with the Cornerstone Church community.
About Daryl Williams:
Daryl Williams is one of the established pannists in the GTA with nearly two decades of performance experience. Originally from Antigua, West Indies, Daryl shares his passion by mentoring and training young students in the art of playing the pan.
