Niki Lopez at The Old Dillard Museum - Florida Emancipation Mini Fest

I've spent many years exhibiting and curating group art exhibits (having my 9th annual curated exhibition at the 1310 Gallery July 15th), so nice to be invited to have a small solo exhibit at a wonderful and historic space. Honored for an opportunity to present at the Old Dillard Art Museum.  The Old Dillard Museum provides enriching exhibitions and educational opportunities to keep Black History alive.

The Old Dillard Museum occupies a prominent place in the history of Fort Lauderdale and has, over the years, presented educational opportunities for African-Americans as the first school constructed for people of color in this area. Formerly called "the colored school," Old Dillard was erected on land purchased from Ft. Lauderdale pioneers Frank and Ivy Stranahan for one dollar. 

For the first time I will have various works (paintings, sculpture and mixed media installations) under one roof along with some pieces from an arts collective 'Artists for Black Lives Matter'. #artistsforblacklivesmatter is an art collective consisting of Allison Kotzig, Alana DaCosta, Richard Wright and myself.  (#a4blm on Facebook)

As one of the speakers for the Florida Day Emancipation Day Mini Fest, I will be speaking on the presented works and sharing some of my story and connection with the significance of this event that also gives a backstory to the What's Your Elephant movement.  WYE uses the arts to create provocative conversations around the unspoken by way of art exhibits, interactive installations, community engagements, artists talks and workshop. (Learn more here)

My intentions for #whatsyourelephant is to create a safe space where one can share and bring awareness through the arts. If sharing my elephants empowers even one person to consider their choices, its impact and speak up when they see an injustice or be a voice for the many who are still living in fear & denial- my job is done. (Learn more here)

If you are local, I do hope you will join me.  Outside of the gallery's opening hours, there will be only two reception opportunities to see this exhibit.   

Niki Lopez and Old Dillard Museum Presents:

I AM THE ELEPHANT

Old Dillard Museum

Saturday May 20th, 1-5pm

Art Exhibit and Talk

The emancipation of Niki Lopez.  Solo art exhibit at the Old Dillard Museum. Niki Lopez will be presenting some of her latest works as well as art collective projects such as Artists For Black Lives Matter and What's Your Elephant. Lopez is a featured artist and one of the speakers at the Florida Emancipation Mini Fest.

Florida Emancipation Day Mini Festival

Celebrate Emancipation Day in a fun-filled, family friendly event that commemorates the struggles and triumphs of the African American people of the state. Featuring an art exhibition and discussion with Niki Lopez; Tony Thompson & The Metropolitan Diversity Theater Company; A screening of the film Night John; Poet/Monologuist David Mills; Saxophone Soloist Jesse Jones, Jr and Crooner Harold Winley of the Inkspots and the Clovers.

Food and Arts and Crafts vendors will also be featured.

Old Dillard Museum

1009 Northwest 4th Street

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

FREE

RSVP at 754.322.8828