The Wallach Art Gallery's latest Uptown Triennial series, "Children’s Art Carnival in Harlem: The Making of Contemporary Artists," is now on view through September 13, celebrating the enduring legacy of the Children's Art Carnival (CAC) as a Harlem cultural cornerstone. Located in a historic Hamilton Heights townhouse, the CAC has fostered artistic innovation and activism for nearly 57 years, providing a vital space for youth creative expression.
The Children's Art Carnival was founded in 1969 by celebrated artist and educator Betty Blayton, a founding member of the Studio Museum in Harlem. Blayton envisioned a safe haven where Uptown youth could explore their creativity, imaginative ideas, and self-reflection through the arts amidst evolving political and societal landscapes.
Today, the CAC continues its mission as a creative hub in Harlem, offering community-driven workshops and open studios that prioritize accessible arts education for young people. It also champions both emerging and established artists who contribute to the neighborhood's vibrant cultural scene.
Souleo, the curator of the current exhibition, discussed the CAC's transformative impact on the local community, Blayton's significant legacy, and the curatorial vision behind the display. The exhibition highlights the carnival's role in shaping contemporary artists and its ongoing influence.
Complementing the exhibition, the Lenfest Center for the Arts will host a panel discussion titled "Art, Jazz, and Reflections: The Children’s Art Carnival" on Saturday, July 11, at 1:00 pm. This event will feature exhibiting artists Elan Cadiz, Dindga McCannon, and Ademola Olugebefola, who will share how their involvement with the CAC shaped their artistic journeys. Curator Souleo will moderate the panel, followed by a live performance from jazz vocalist Vanisha Gould. Additionally, a "Crafts on the Corner: Sketch Sessions" event, blending sketching and sounds, will take place on Wednesday, July 15, at 12:00 pm, starting at The Forum and concluding at the Wallach Art Gallery.