At the helm of the visually captivating exhibition Dancing in the Light, Farida Abu-Bakare brings her expertise as both designer and curator to the forefront, skillfully intertwining the rich narratives of contemporary Black life through the lens of portraiture. Drawing from The Wedge Collection, this exhibition marks a significant chapter in MOCA Toronto’s The City is a Collection series, showcasing the depth of Toronto’s private art collections to the broader public. Abu-Bakare, alongside Kate Wong, has meticulously selected works from over distinguished artists, including Oreka James, Carrie Mae Weems, Jonathan Lyndon Chase, and Lynette Yiadom-Boakye. Through diverse mediums, Dancing in the Light delves into the complexities of Black existence, challenging traditional narratives by portraying moments of stillness and vulnerability as profound expressions of strength.

This approach actively resists the often oversimplified and commodified representations of Blackness prevalent in art history and popular culture. Envisioned by Abu-Bakare as a space of engagement and reflection, the exhibition is designed to be an inviting environment for dialogue and learning. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the thematic depth of the show through provided seating areas, books, and music, facilitating a deeper connection with the artworks on display. Farida Abu-Bakare’s curatorial and design acumen ensures that the exhibition is not just a showcase of art but a transformative experience that honors the nuanced stories of Black lives, offering a resonant exploration of identity, culture, and human experience.

CREDITS

Type - Exhibition

Location - Toronto, Ontario

Design & Curation - Farida Abu-Bakare & Kate Wong

Client - The Wedge Collection

Status - Complete