We are delighted to invite you to our M:BRACE Art Exhibition which has been curated by CasildART Contemporary, in honour of Black History Month (BHM) 2024. This year's theme, "Reclaiming Narratives", signifies a crucial shift towards acknowledging and rectifying the narrative of Black History and culture.
Join us as we illuminate the stories, allegories, and history that have shaped our diverse society. The evening will be hosted by Sukai Eccleston, featuring a dynamic panel discussion with artists Kay Gasei, Christopher Day, Aislinn Finnegan, and Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Responsible Business Specialist, Warren Stapley.
Following the discussion, we invite you to enjoy networking, Caribbean and African inspired canapés, entertainment, and Rum Punch.
M:BRACE is committed to promoting racial equity, diversity, allyship, and inclusion. We look forward to your presence as we celebrate, recognise, and reflect on the rich tapestry of Black History. The art on display is not only a reflection of this history, but also a testament to the talent and creativity within our community. We encourage you to take the time to appreciate the art before and after the panel session, and if you feel moved to do so, to support the artists by purchasing their work.
CEO of CasildART Contemporary
Sukai Eccleston
Sukai Eccleston, is the founder and CEO of CasildART Contemporary, a not-for-profit gallery dedicated to addressing the underrepresentation of Black artists in fine art institutions, commercial galleries, and museums. The gallery also serves as a vibrant creative hub, hosting talks, events, and networking events. CasildART also collaborates with brands and companies to curate exhibitions in their spaces, creating a more dynamic and inclusive work environment.
Artists include:
Christopher Day
Christopher Day is a mixed-race artist based in the UK, whose work explores the complexities of racial identity and social issues. His art, often self-portraits, reflects on his personal experiences as a biracial individual, navigating the nuances of being both black and white in the UK. His solo exhibition, 'Blown, Bound and Bold', delves into the intricacies of internalised racism and the challenges of establishing an identity that transcends linear definitions of race and heritage.
Kay Gasei
Kay Gasei is a Zambian heritage, British raised, London based mixed media artist, illustrator and designer. He mainly explores themes of culture and narratives both mythical and historical. In his own words, “I’m into stories, myths, all the minutiae that contribute to the tapestry of life, stuff init”.
Aislinn Finnegan
Aislinn is a Zambian/Northern Irish illustrator based in London where she is reading a Masters in History of African Art in London. She uses portraiture to empower and aim to normalize and represent Black female narratives in the art world using an Afro-futuristic approach by placing them at the center and forefront of nearly every piece.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Responsible Business Specialist:
Warren Stapley FRSA
Warren is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Responsible Business Specialist at Montagu Evans. Based in London, he is a qualified solicitor, Mental Health First Aider, and a member of the Institute of Corporate Responsibility Sustainability. With proven expertise in developing and managing DEI projects and initiatives, Warren brings a commercially focused approach, informed by both professional and personal experience with disability. Warren has a keen interest in how disabilities are managed in challenging, client-focused work environments.