Asante Art Gallery is on a mission to showcase African art on a global stage, sharing Africa's beauty and spirit with the world. Here, every piece of artwork tells a story, and each visitor takes a piece of Africa with them. Locally, Asante Art Gallery serves as a cultural hub, offering a space where art and community come together to celebrate heritage and creativity. Read on to learn more from the gallery's managing director Sylvia Kendi.
Tell us about how Asante Art Gallery came to be!
Asante Art Gallery is a culmination of over two decades of dedication to African art, rooted in our early days back in Kenya. Our journey in art began with prestigious commissions to gift senior government dignitaries and to revamp embassies, alongside attending numerous art shows. Art is not just our business; it's our life's work. Upon moving to the U.S., we continued to introduce and celebrate African art through shows hosted right from our basement. It was a humble yet vibrant beginning, bridging continents and cultures through every piece showcased. The dream of having our own space was always in mind, and in June 2023, that dream became a reality when we opened Asante Art Gallery in the Valley.
Describe what it means to you to be the first African art gallery in the Lehigh Valley.
Being the first African art gallery in the Lehigh Valley is not just a title—it's a testament to our community's openness and diversity. The welcoming embrace we've received from the local residents and organizations in the Lehigh Valley reinforces our belief that art transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. The move to establish a presence in the Lehigh Valley was driven by our desire to connect with a broader audience and to serve as a bridge between cultures. By introducing the unique flavors and stories of African art to this new setting, we not only share pieces of Kenyan culture but also celebrate the universal language of art. Each artwork curated in our gallery offers a glimpse into the diverse landscapes, rich histories and vibrant cultures of Africa, making Asante Art Gallery a beacon of cultural exchange and understanding.
Tell us the meaning behind the gallery's name.
The word “asante,” which means “thank you” in Swahili, holds deep significance for our gallery. It reflects our gratitude towards everyone who has been part of our journey. From our origins in Nairobi to our establishment in the Lehigh Valley, each step has been supported by countless individuals who believed in our vision. This includes our talented artists, our dedicated team and our diverse community of clients and partners.
Describe the overall vibe of the gallery. What is a viewing experience like for visitors?
Asante Art Gallery is an immersive journey into the heart of Africa. From the moment visitors step through our doors, they're transported to a world where the vibrant landscapes, majestic wildlife and rich cultures of Africa come alive. A visit to Asante Art Gallery is not just a viewing experience; it's an educational journey that enlightens and inspires. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation of Africa's artistic heritage, encouraged to think about art not only as a form of beauty but as a narrative of vibrant cultures and histories.
Tell us about the range of artwork on display at the gallery.
We pride ourselves on offering a diverse array of artwork that showcases the rich tapestry of African creativity. Our collection features a variety of mediums, ensuring there is something to capture the interest of every visitor. As visitors wander through our exhibits, they experience a dynamic blend of traditional and contemporary African art. Each piece, whether it's a painting, sculpture or piece of handmade jewelry, tells a story of the people, animals or places it represents.
Tell us about some of the exhibits and events the gallery has hosted!
Asante Art Gallery has had the privilege of hosting a range of dynamic and meaningful events that align closely with our mission to promote African art and culture. Among these, we were honored to host the Black Wall Street event in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce. This event focused on celebrating African-American entrepreneurship and culture. More recently, we hosted the Lehigh Valley Fashion Week, an event that brought together fashion, art and culture, highlighting local and international designers. Our gallery was transformed into a vibrant runway, where the textiles, colors and patterns of Africa mingled with contemporary fashion trends, exploring the intersections of cultural identity and artistic expression.
What upcoming exhibits and events do you have planned?
We are continuously planning smaller exhibits, workshops and collaborative projects that aim to engage different segments of the community throughout the year. Stay tuned for more details as we finalize the exciting lineup of activities!
123 Palmer Park Mall, Easton | 484.602.0864 | 484.767.5143 | Instagram
Published as “Get the Goods” in the September 2024 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
