Alternative Tentacle 16
May 12, 2021 - May 31, 2021
For the past sixteen(!) years, Xpace Cultural Centre gears up for Alternative Tentacle, one of the most exciting exhibitions to take over our gallery every Spring.
Please visit here to view the exhibition!
Before we know it, a whirlwind of young artists have transformed our space and our walls are suddenly jam-packed from floor to ceiling with photos, paintings, stencils, stickers, you name it! It’s always a burst of fresh energy to work alongside these young, up-and-coming artists to celebrate the end of an era and welcome a new cycle of learning, creativity and entrepreneurship.
This year is a bit different, and we are very excited to not only co-present the online exhibition of Alternative Tentacle, but also host a stellar window display designed by Oasis Skateboard Factory in partnership with GelaSkins.
For the past sixteen(!) years, Xpace Cultural Centre gears up for Alternative Tentacle, one of the most exciting exhibitions to take over our gallery every Spring.
Please visit here to view the exhibition!
Before we know it, a whirlwind of young artists have transformed our space and our walls are suddenly jam-packed from floor to ceiling with photos, paintings, stencils, stickers, you name it! It’s always a burst of fresh energy to work alongside these young, up-and-coming artists to celebrate the end of an era and welcome a new cycle of learning, creativity and entrepreneurship.
This year is a bit different, and we are very excited to not only co-present the online exhibition of Alternative Tentacle, but also host a stellar window display designed by Oasis Skateboard Factory in partnership with GelaSkins.
As one of the fifteen contributing student artists of this window display, this skateboard installation has given me the opportunity to feel seen, heard, and worthy. This year’s window display is a statement on giving Black, Indigenous, and racialized youth the chance to have the spotlight. The significance of this public art display is to heighten the voices and showcase the talent of those who have been overlooked by society countless times.
Like the branch stretching across the 9 boards representing hopeful growth, reaching towards future possibility, I believe that alt9 schools have created a place where Black, Indigenous and racialized youth can unapologetically be ourselves and be supported to thrive. With staff who recognize and understand the importance of creating a safe space that invites diversity, alternative schools allow students to express themselves while encouraging others to do the same. It’s extremely important to recognize that there are people that deserve equal opportunities but haven’t been given them due to society’s outdated hierarchies. With this in mind, I encourage everyone, especially those who consider themselves leaders to continue to amplify youth voices. There is no future without change and there is, and always will be, power in diversity.
– Eunice Kim, Oasis Skateboard Factory Student Designer
Featuring work by: Chi-Chi Njoku, Tehila Orhue, Teia Brown, Kyana Browne-Dixon, Arianna Todman, Anna Deterville, Kioni Rhule, Thilini Pradhana, Eunice Kim, Alicia Reis, Selina Maharaj, Saskia Sillaste, Kei Tran, Teyara Bardoo and Savvoi Pessoa.
The installation is available for viewing 24/7 from the street, located at 2-303 Lansdowne Ave right on the intersection with Dundas St West.
Our immense congratulations to all the artists! We know it’s tough times, but your art and enthusiasm is uplifting, and we can’t wait to see what you bring into the world on these next steps in your journey.
