Symbols of Endurance: A Cultural Collage

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Recommended: Use of Symbolism

Planting An Idea Beginning with a seed and a leaf as his inspiration, artist Marlon Griffith creates artwork for his first solo exhibition, Symbols of Endurance (Gallery Booklet, 2015). From rough sketches to large mixed media installations Symbols of Endurance showcases a wide variety of works by Griffith. In Symbols of Endurance, Griffith successfully incorporates cultural representation, showcases talent from all across Toronto, and welcomes persons with disabilities. Ultimately, Symbols of Endurance is a powerful exhibition that effectively celebrates Canada’s diverse community. Foremost, the representation of different cultures is evident in Symbols of Endurance. The exhibit is based on the procession, Ring of Fire (AGYU Fall Newsletter, 2015). Processions are performances that bring a cultural presence of a particular group to the city. Unlike any other procession, Ring of Fire was a collaboration of different cultural groups coming together for the Parapan American Games in the city of Toronto. The procession took place on August 9th, 2015 from Queen’s Park to City Hall (AGYU Fall Newsletter, 2015). Amongst the many groups that contributed to make Ring of Fire possible, Griffith worked with members …show more content…

Symbols of Endurance is an all-encompassing exhibit that features disability dancers from Picasso PRO and Equal Grounds (AGYU Fall Newsletter, 2015). These dancers are seen on the walls of gallery two. There is a life-size projection of the dancers from the procession. By restaging elements such masks and pieces worn by the performers from Ring of Fire the gallery space is transformed. The installations in gallery two are successfully arranged without feeling overwhelming. This projection allows for an inviting experience. Although the video displays crowds of dancers and performers, the dimly lit room makes viewing the artwork

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