Our Programming
Black History Month
Since 2000, Cultural Expressions for CHANGE has presented a Black History Month event, titled the Durham Black History Month Celebration. This annual showcase has embraced a variety of themes to recognize the accomplishments, struggles and contributions of Black people in our community and beyond. It features a vendor marketplace, stage performances and a keynote address, and has attracted attendees from across Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area, including political figures at all levels of government. Join us, as we celebrate the rich heritage and cultures of the African diaspora, and raise awareness about important contributions of Black people that have shaped our society.
Arts Scholarship
The Cultural Expressions Post-Secondary Arts Scholarship was launched in 2021 and is presented annually to support the artistic studies of future professionals. This scholarship is open to Grade 12 students who identify as Black, who are attending a Durham Region high school and who have been accepted to an arts program at a Canadian college or university. Eligible arts programs range from the performing arts to museum studies; literary, visual and media arts; to arts administration and curatorial practice, and beyond. Three individual awards of $1,000 each are granted by Cultural Expressions Art Gallery Inc. with sponsorship support. For 2024 we are grateful to the following sponsors: Rotary Club of Pickering and Durham Children’s Aid Foundation.
Application deadline: May 31, 2024.
Arts Exhibition
Our annual Arts Exhibition is a celebration of creativity, showcasing the diverse works of both emerging and established artists. This juried show serves as a platform to promote artistic expression and provide a space for artists to share their vision with the community.
Madiba Award
The Madiba Award is named in honor of Nelson Mandela, affectionately known by South Africans as Madiba (Father of the Nation). It is presented annually during our Black History Month Celebration to a leader of African ancestry in Durham Region or an organization that has made significant contributions to social justice, equality, and human rights, and whose journey embodies Nelson Mandela’s values, visions, and commitment to overcome barriers in his long fight for freedom and equality. The award is a striking, original bust sculpture of Madiba. The annual deadline for nominations is December.
