A contemporary art exhibit that explores the "history, politics, science and psychology of Black hairstyles" could be coming to sheltered bus and ION stations in Waterloo region this summer.
A recommendation that Waterloo region support a temporary public art installation in public transit advertising spaces along the ION Rapid Transit corridor and GRT bus route, was tabled for committee consideration this week ahead of final council approval.
The installation would be part of the Contemporary Art Forum Kitchener and Area (CAFKA) biennial public art festival, which provides funding up to $20,000 from the Public Art Reserve.
CAFKA has asked to partner with the Region of Waterloo to cover the costs of printing, installation and rental of advertising space.
The anticipated cost is approximately $16,300 inclusive of HST.
The proposed artwork is an installation entitled “Chains & Crowns” by Ottawa-based artist Stephané Alexis.
The installation is a series of photographs that explores afro hairstyles and its impact on culture from a socio-historical standpoint.
CAFKA’s biennial temporary public art festival will take place June 3 to July 22.
This isn't the first time the region and CAFKA have partnered on its public art program.
In 2021, CAFKA used the Pattison Outdoor, the company that manages the advertising spaces at several ION stations, to feature a contemporary photography project.
The non-profit, artist-run organization presents a free, biennial exhibition of contemporary art in public spaces throughout Waterloo Region annually.
CAFKA commissions contemporary artists to develop new temporary art projects that respond to the specific features of the local urban landscape and culture.
