Nia Centre For The Arts opens as the first professional Black arts facility in Canada

BY PAUL JUNOR

Nia Centre For the Arts officially opened on Thursday, November 2^nd, 2023. As the first professional Black arts facility it will be a space that reflects the power and beauty of African Canadian creativity. Prior to the official opening, a press release was issued by Nia Centre of the Arts. The refurbished Centre costs $12 million and it transformed the 14,000 sq. ft facility to include: a multimedia performance area, a digital media hub, event spaces, artist and youth zones. It was in 2020 that the groundbreaking was held at a historic building located at 524 Oakwood Avenue in Little Jamaica.

Alicia Hall, Executive Director of Nia Centre states, “With the disappearance of third spaces across Toronto there is an urgent need to address the lack of gathering places for Black communities. The centre is a direct response to this need. We are thrilled to be opening our doors and continue to create dedicated space for our community.”

Michael Braithwaite, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors states, “Nia Centre is creating a legacy for our communities, the artists we collaborate with, and the young creatives we support to foster a generation of Black Canadian artists. We know this space will unearth new stories and create a larger platform for Black artistic expression in Canada.”

The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage states, “As the Government of Canada, we’re proud to be supporting the renovation of the Nia Centre for the Arts. We know the importance of accessible and culturally relevant spaces for the arts and artists. Congratulations on the grand opening. Let’s celebrate this groundbreaking professional arts centre dedicated to showcasing, nurturing and promoting the work of artists from across the African diaspora.”

Nation Cheong, Vice-President, Community Opportunities and Mobilization for United Way Greater Toronto states, “Nia Centre for the Arts shines as a beacon of transformative power and a place of hope, inspiration, and empowerment for Black youth and the broader community. It’s a movement, honouring ancestral legacy and championing the future of Black: artistry, culture, and community. This structure is a testament to the community building force led by and centering on the vision of young Black artists breaking barriers while lighting the path for the next generation. Nia is a shining example of public and philanthropic partnerships dedicated to creating something truly exceptional.”

In an email from Nia Centre for the Arts on Wednesday, November 15^th, 2023, titled, “Black Art, Black Space, Black Culture,” it lists several events such as:

Here to Stay- November 8^th – December 11^th

In partnership with the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) it is an experiential exploration into the history and future of Black spaces in Toronto. It commemorates the 77^th anniversary of Viola Desmond’s historic stand against racial segregation in Canada. This mixed media installation captures the majesty of Nia Centre as a reference point for Black space-exploring what was, what is and what will be.

Here to Stay: Collage Workshop: December 3^rd

In this interactive workshop, participants will be exploring the theme of Black space in Toronto using mixed media and archival materials.

Voices of Tomorrow: Youth Showcase: November 23^rd

The next generation of Black creatives: in music, spoken word, dance and comedy will have an opportunity to showcase their creativity and diverse talents.

Youth Photography Exhibition: November 28^th

Photographers who participated in the Take Three photography program will showcase their final works in an exhibition that they curate.

Homecoming Party: November 30^th

It will be a special event for Black artists to celebrate their journey, mingle and have their works publicly recognized.