Back again for another artful activation, Barnes on the Block will kick off in collaboration with Mural Arts Philadelphia and AFROTAINO this Sunday, July 16, at The Barnes Foundation.
From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the sixth annual activation of this experience will be in full swing with activities and offerings spanning family-friendly art-making, live music, food, drinks, access to an exhibition, dance performances and more.
“We’re excited to gather with the community again this summer for the sixth annual Barnes on the Block, spotlighting local artists, makers, and musicians,” says Val Gay, Deputy Director for Audience Engagement & Chief Experience Officer at the Barnes in a statement.
Gay continued: “A great collaboration with our friends at Mural Arts Philadelphia and AFROTAINO, this year’s Barnes on the Block promises to be a day full of family-friendly fun, with opportunities to find artistic inspiration at every turn.”
Highlights of the day include a wellness workshop led by Shanina Dionna; crown making and other floral art activities with Marcellus; DJ sets by DJ JAMZ; performances by Batala Philly, TAMEARTZ, and Nasya Gay; and a special closing musical performance curated by AFROTAINO, featuring the Philadelphia debut of Latin Grammy nominee Riccie Oriach, a release states.
Those who attend the event will also be able to check out Barnes’ latest exhibition William Edmondson: A Monumental Vision for free (registration beforehand is required.) This particular showcase is the first major East Coast exhibition dedicated to the work of the self-taught American sculptor in decades. The free tickets will be available online beginning at 10 a.m. this Thursday, July 13, and Philadelphians can register there or on-site for gallery access and a chance to win a free membership to the Barnes (four winners will be selected by a random drawing.)
Food will be provided by a variety of food trucks while at Barnes on the Block, with options spanning The Munchie Machine, Mom-Mom’s, Los Jimenez Mexican Food, and Helados Chupi Chupi. There will also be a Beer Garden by Constellation Culinary Group, which will be serving up seasonal brews from Philadelphia-based Yards Brewing Co., Two Robbers hard seltzer, wine from Cyrenity Sips Winery, and nonalcoholic beverage options near the Barnes box office on 20th Street (between the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Callowhill Street).
Live performances will play throughout the day (from reggae sets to Djs and even an exploration of the Caribbean roots of limbo) and art making demos will span printmaking, ceramics and even a live mural painting.
“This collaborative celebration of art, music, and community is a testament to the transformative power of creativity,” says Jane Golden, Executive Director of Mural Arts Philadelphia in a statement. “Together, we aim to ignite change and foster connections that inspire and uplift our city. Join us as we come together to make a vibrant and inclusive Philadelphia.”
Barnes on the Block will take place rain or shine, moving indoors in the event of inclement weather. To find out more information, visit barnesfoundation.org
