AfriKin Art Fair 2024: Threads of Life in Fragments of Time

The AfriKin Art Fair 2024, themed Threads of Life in Fragments of Time, promises to be a transformative cultural experience during Miami Art Week, running from December 1st to December 8th exhibiting artists from over 33 countries. Situated at Maison AfriKin in the Scott Galvin Community Center (1600 NE 126th Street, North Miami, FL 33181), this year’s edition is set to explore the intricate connections that bind us as humans to each other, the earth, and the cosmos—through the lens of African Contemporary Fine Art. The fair will delve into themes of displacement, regeneration, healing, and environmental challenges, inviting both local and global audiences to immerse themselves in a profound artistic dialogue around climate change, sustainability, identity, and the cultural landscape.

Fair Details:

The All-White VIP Affair will have a dress code of white with a splash of African chic, and during the event, guests will experience visual and performing arts, film, food, talks, and more with 74 artists from 33 countries.

We are proud to honor two distinguished artists—Cameroonian/Dutch photographer Angèle Etoundi Essamba and UK-based artist and frontman of Prodigy, Maxim—with the 2024 AfriKin Award of Excellence for their exceptional contributions to the arts.

Featured performances at the Vernissage on December 1st include: Aboubacar Camara (Guinea), Aboubacar “Amo” Soumah (Guinea), Braata Dancers (Belize), Connis Vanterpool (Sint Maarten), Delou Africa (Africa), Essynce of the Dutch Caribbean, (Kingdom of the Netherlands), JaShua Sa Ra (US), Morikeba Galiya Kouyate (Sénégal), Nadia Sol (Jamaica), Saturnin Ba (Ivory Coast), Yrneh Gabon (Jamaica), Zest Collective (US).

Then, on Wednesday, December 4th, the AfriKin Artist Talk – Unpacking Blackness in Africa and its Diaspora, will feature two distinguished artists—Cameroonian/Dutch photographer Angèle Etoundi Essamba and UK-based artist and frontman of Prodigy, Maxim, moderated by Jamaican born, US based Fulbright Fellow and interdisciplinary artist Yrneh Gabon. They will unpack how art heals emotional trauma, the impact of colonization on the Black world, and, why artists must use their art to foster peace, understanding and build bridges for our global kin.

On Thursday, December 5th, the fair will feature a panel discussion – Man’s Journey with Nature in partnership with Impact Edition magazine. In addition to the screening of ‘Ready to be a Warrior’ a film about Betye Saar followed by a Q&A with the director Angela Witherspoon and narrator CCH Pounder.

On Friday, December 6th, the program AfriKin: Guardians of Time—an evening of art and honor, which honors Miami-Dade first responders; featuring spoken word by Shamele Jenkins and the Miami Gardens Golden Poets (US), and the conversation “Echoes of the Earth: Reconnecting to Nature, Identity and the Warrior’s Path” by the artists Delphine Diallo and Chukes moderated by AfriKin’s guest curator from Botswana Atang L. S. Arnold.

On Saturday, December 7th, the AfriKin Artist Talk – Familiar Strangers, will unpack the role of art and culture in sustainable development by AfriKin featured women artist’s.

The Culmination on Sunday, December 8th will be the AfriKin Fashion Runway – Weave of Wonders – From Heritage to Horizon that will feature the designers Rama Diaw (Senegal), Lia Samantha (Colombia), Elisa Lejuez (Aruba), Zainabu Fashion House (Nigeria), Pleatz Miami (US), KaltuRal Roots (Haiti), Ruky Fashion (Ghana).

Additionally, the week will feature book signings by the artists Chukes (US) with his book “Identity Theft” and Angèle Etoundi Essamba (Cameroon/Netherlands) with her book “Everything is Connected”.




We hope to see you there!

I am pleased to share Randi O'Brien's outstanding online journal article, Identity Theft - Creations from a Social Conscience from the September 2024 issue of Studio Potter!

Identity Theft introduces you to a body of work that was initially a protest against the televised brutality and killings of Black people and people of color. But the world changed in the past few years, and Chukes’ art evolved with it. Chukes tells the truth by bringing history to life in his art and through his point of view.

Foreword by David Pagel, a Professor of Art Theory and History at Claremont Graduate University, nationally acclaimed art critic and art curator, and adjunct professor at the Parrish Art Museum. Pagel writes “the hands-on, labor-intensive integrity of [Chukes’] workmanship puts great demands on himself while at the same time inspiring us viewers to be our best selves—to pay attention to details—to see beyond the obvious, to sense what is invisible, to question what we have been told, and to think for ourselves.”

What others are saying:

Wayne and Elda: "We are overloaded with emotions, Chukes. Thank you for Identify Theft. We feel such a privilege that we met you and admired your work so many years ago. Your book - the title, your words and the excellent photographs of your amazing artworks are superbly beautiful and powerful. We now know you on a more personal level and we are in awe. This book belongs in every household and we know your art and message will continue to live forever, impacting the world for the better, even if in small and painful steps. We wish you happiness and fantastic success!"

Kerry K: "It's such a beautiful book and an important collection of your work. The messages, stories, art, and images are powerful, poignant, and full of love and hope, too. Very well done!"

Dale F: "I am enjoying reading your book! Very inspirational for me!"

Nina K: "First a small book. Then a full sized book. So many important words from such an important artist. Your fingers talk with clay and speak to all of us. May we be smart enough to listen!!!"

Poly V: “I love every page of this book!!”

Adam D: “Once I touched the book, I knew I had to buy it!”

Bernie S: “I made my way through your book, it’s so awesome! Other people I’ve shown it to are very impressed, as well. They ask me how I know you and I tell them and they’re blown away at how deep your well of creativity is. And thank you for the thoughtful inscription, it really means a lot to me. Best of luck with this project, I hope it opens more doors for you!”

Paul C: Well done✊🏾

Dr. Cindy Urrutia: “Identity Theft is more than a thematic body of work. It is a provocative conscious endeavor meant to elicit deep and meaningful conversations on black history, erasure, identity, and culture at a pivotal time where we are witnessing a national reckoning with our past. Its strength is amplified by Chukes’ juxtaposition of tensions —exposing systematic oppression, racism and violence alongside beauty, tenderness, and love. Be prepared to have your senses stimulated, your mind questioning, and your heart feeling.”

Bess W: “Fabulous book!”

Michael C: “My House is Again Blessed.”

Linda M: “The book IDENTITY THEFT is a beautiful masterpiece that is a ‘one of a kind’ fascinating cultural journey. The concept is brilliant. Knowing the creative passion behind each work of art is a very exciting spiritual experience. Thank You Michael Chukes for sharing your genius!”

Matter Studio Gallery (via Instagram): “INCREDIBLE! And Enlightening!”

Garland_Artist (via Instagram): “This book is Amazing, I've read it twice. Beautiful Cover. Yes 65 Beautiful pieces of Chukes works. It's a must have.”

Jeffrey T: Unparcelled work of master art from a master sculptor and artist. This is a art class and lesson in black history all at once. So thankful for the storytellng and the what and why behind the art sculptors all at the same time. This book will be relevant in 150 years from now as it was 150 years ago.

Bernardo S: Fast response, status updating and shipping. Book was well packed. Book is great!

Patricia M: The order process was easy and the shipment on-time. The product quality was outstanding and the book content was breathtaking, enlightening, and educational. I highly recommend this book, the author/artist, and company.

Book information:
Publisher: Sagest Press
Date: March 2023
ISBN: 978-1-949587-04-3
Price: $70.00 + shipping and handling
9.5"x12" hardcover and 60 color illustrations
For more information or to purchase online, please visit: chukesartbooks

Please join us for a Matter Studio Gallery art collaborative exhibition with Greg Gilmore’s Modern Hairitage Salon featuring works by Chukes, Talita Long, Jora Nelstein, and Brian Atchley.

Exhibtion dates:
October 20, 2024 thru November 19, 2024

Event address:
Modern Hairitage Salon
459 1/2 S. La Brea Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90036

Hope to see you there!

New date: June 8: Please join me as I discuss and sign my book Identity Theft: Creations from Social Conscience at Linda Vista Branch Library in Pasadena, Saturday, June 8, 2024, 11 a.m.

Book information:
Publisher: Sagest Press
Date: March 2023
ISBN: 978-1-949587-04-3
Price: $70.00
For more information or to purchase online, please visit: chukesartbooks

Hope to see you there!

Please join us and support Art Melanated's group show celebrating the incredible Stevie Wonder at Thompson Buckhead in Atlanta February 2 - April 26, 2024

Curated by Sol Aponte and Jennia Fredrique Aponte of Art Melanated, this exhibition is a heartfelt homage to the incomparable musical genius, Stevie Wonder.

What's in store? Art Melanated has infused the exhibition with fresh works by Jennia Fredrique Aponte and Kevin A. Williams, and introduced an array of exceptionally talented new artists like Celso González, Patrick Henry Johnson, Robert Peterson, and Peyton the Artist. Trust us, this is an experience you won't want to miss!

Featured Artists:
Jennia Fredrique Aponte
Chukes
Bart Cooper
Brandon Deener
Celso González
Patrick Henry Johnson Kipkemoi
Shaina McCoy
Murjoni Merriweather
Robert Peterson
Peyton The Artist
Miles Regis
Bruce W. Talamon
Kevin A. Williams (WAK)

Event dates:
Opening - February 2, 7-10pm
Artist Talk - February 3, 1-3pm

Event location:
Tesserae
Thompson Buckhead
415 East Paces Ferry Rd NE
Atlanta, GA 30305
10th Floor of Thompson Buckhead

Chukes is an African American artist who grew up in the Bay Area and now resides in Southern California. His art is powerful and expressive, communicating the importance of understanding his history and his truth. He creates his art as an educational and historical tool, teaching others what needs to be seen - the truth that cannot be ignored. This exhibition incorporates both paintings and sculptures, including new and unseen works that are a part of the artist's Identity Theft series.

Exhibition dates:
January 20, 2024 to April 14, 2024
Opening/Artist Reception: Saturday, January 20, 2024, 2pm to 4pm
Artist Talk and Book Signing: March 30, 2024, 2pm to 4pm RSVP

Event address:
Triton Museum of Art
Warburton Gallery
1505 Warburton Avenue
Santa Clara, CA 95050
Museum hours: Tuesdays - Sundays, 11am to 4:30 pm

Please join us for my solo exhibition, A Breath of Fresh Air, at Hearne Fine Art.

OCTOBER 27, 2023 - FEBRUARY 10, 2024

Event dates:
Friday, October 27 - Opening Reception - 5pm-8pm
Saturday, October 28 - Artist Talk & Book Signing - 2pm
Sunday, November 19 - Virtual - In Conversation with Chukes
Thursday, February 1 - Closing Reception
Saturday, February 3 - Art Talk & Book Signing - 2pm

Event address:
Hearne Fine Art
1001 Wright Ave
Little Rock, AR 72206
(501) 372-6822

Please join us for Art Melanated’s group show celebrating Stevie Wonder at Andaz West Hollywood Hotel October 14 – December 31.

Featured artists: JENNIA FREDRIQUE APONTE | CHUKES | BART COOPER | BRANDON DEENER | KIPKEMOI | SHAINA MCCOY | MURJONI MERRIWEATHER | MILES REGIS | BRUCE W. TALAMON | KEVIN A. WILLIAMS (WAK)

VIP Grand Opening on October 14 from 12-6pm. RSVP at Art Melanated

This show features my most recent sculpture, Fingertips in honor of Stevie Wonder.

AfriKin Art is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated list of artists, designers, performers, and scholars that will be exhibiting at the 2023 AfriKin Art Fair, Miami's premier contemporary Africana art fair during Miami Art Week and Art Basel Miami.

This year’s theme, "Celebrating the Beauty and Brilliance of Global Africa," explores the intriguing blend of Afrofuturism and traditional African aesthetics, weaving an innovative tapestry of alternate realities that challenge conventional perceptions of African history and culture. It further delves into the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and African fine art, creating a rich platform to explore the intricate bond between these two worlds.

Event dates:
December 3-10, 2023
RSVP


Event address:
Scott Galvin Community Center
1600 Northeast 126th Street
North Miami, FL 33181

Hope you can attend and support this major event!

Please come out to celebrate and support the annual Watts Towers Drum and Jazz Festivals. I am honored to have a booth at this family fun free event where my new book, Identity Theft and my catalog of this work will be available for purchase.

Event dates:
September 30, 2023 | 10am-6pm
October 1, 2023 | 10am-6pm

Event address:
Watts Towers Art Center Campus
1727 E 107th St
Los Angeles, CA 90002
(213) 847-4646

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Turning Point: A 20th Anniversary Gallery Retrospective
September 1 – October 28, 2023, Group show curated by Eric Murphy

Event dates:
Opening Reception: First Friday, September 1 | 6-9pm: Performance by Zimbabwean native musician – Piwai and our resident DJ, DJ Tekneek. Food catered by Eat Play Events & Catering

Chukes Book Signing and Talk: Saturday, September 9th | 2-4pm

Group poets hosted by Kim McMillon: Saturday, September 30th | 1-4pm

Artist Talk: Part 1 October 6th | 6-9pm
Artist Talk: Part 2 October 14th | 1–4pm

Featured Artists: Janet Barnes, Zoe Boston, Stevens Jay Carter, Pauletta Chanco, Chukes, Aziz Diagne, Emory Douglas, David Bruce Graves, Katy Kuhn, Richard Mayhew, Mel Ramos, David Ruth, Sibylle Szagger-Redford, John Simmons, Bryan Keith Thomas, Kevin Woodson and more. Also featuring: The African American Quilt Guild of Oakland (In Memory of Marion Coleman), and select artists from the Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series including Jimi Evins, John Waguespack and Glimpses in Time juried photography series featuring Traci Bartlow and more.

For more info and to rsvp for free, visit: https://jgg20th.eventbrite.com

Joyce Gordon Gallery:
406 14th St (12th St. Bart Exit) Oakland, Ca. 94612 | (510) 465-8928

For more information please contact:
Eric Murphy: eric.joycegordongallery@gmail.com
Gallery: 510.465.8928

Selected works from Identity Theft are featured in the ArtAboveReality and YouTube video series directed and produced by Badir McCleary

Please join us for my solo exhibition, Truth Matters with new works of art and books available for purchase at Matter Studio Gallery from July 23, 2023 - August 20, 2023

Event dates:
July 23, 4-8pm: Opening Reception
August 13, 2-4pm: Poetry Reading on Truth Matters featuring Estella Holman, S. Pearl Sharp, V. Kali, Nailah Porter, and Jessica Gallon
August 20, 3-6pm: Artist Talk + Book Signing + Closing Reception

Signed copies of my new book, Identity Theft ($70) will be available for purchase at the Gallery and online at chukesartbooks

Event address:
5080 W Pico Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90019
323-697-4988
Matter Studio Gallery

As always, thank you for your tremendous support!

Please join me for my next book signing and talk for Identity Theft: Creations From a Social Conscience at Alkebu-lan Cultural Center.

Event Date:
Saturday, June 24, 2023 - 2:00pm

Event address:
Alkebu-lan Cultural Center
1435 N Raymond Ave
Pasadena, CA 91104

Identity Theft will be available for purchase at the event or please visit chukesartbooks Hope to see you there!

Book information:
Publisher: Sagest Press
Date: March 2023
ISBN: 978-1-949587-04-3
LCCN: 2022951449
Price: $70.00
9.5"x12" hardcover and 60 color illustrations
For more information, visit: chukesartbooks

Identity Theft can also be purchased at these fine art spaces:
Framed Gallery Cleveland, OH
Hearne Fine Art Little Rock, AR
Joyce Gordon Gallery Oakland, CA
The Creative House Inglewood, CA
Thelma Harris Art Gallery Oakland, CA

Thank you for your continuous support!

IDENTITY THEFT: Creations From a Social Conscience
By Chukes and Foreword by David Pagel
$70

Extraordinary collection of artist’s sculptures and paintings invite you to contemplate the causes and effects of misrepresentation of historical facts and its dire effects on the past and present world through his distinctive point of view.

Event date:
Saturday, May 27, 2023 - 1:30pm-5:00pm

Event address:
The Creative House
122 N Market St
Inglewood, CA 90301

Published: Sagest Press, March 2023
ISBN: 9781949587043
Available at: The Creative House and chukesartbooks

CADA Conversations Presents Artist Chukes by Ludlow E Bailey, https://diasporadigitalnews.com/cada-conversations-presents-artist-michael-chukes-by-ludlow-e-bailey/

Interviewed April 30, 2023

Carl Freedman Gallery

Chukes will be featured in a new docuseries titled Switching Lanes soon. This series also features Hip-Hop legends, Pete Rock and Easy Mo Bee, and Hip-Hop fashion icon, April Walker.

YouTube video, Hands of Clay by Chukes

A film on YouTube by Eric Minh Swenson featuring Chukes