Founded by Patrick Woodtor, the African Festival of the Arts (AFA) is an annual spectacular celebration of arts and culture from across the African Diaspora. The Festival is hosted each year by Africa International House, Inc.
2011 marks the 22nd anniversary of the Festival as a world-class destination for engaging, family fun. It is the largest neighborhood festival in Chicago, and the largest of its kind in the U.S.
Annually during Labor Day Weekend, the Festival grounds in Chicago’s Washington Park come alive in a simulated African village. Attendees are transported across the Diaspora with interactive demonstrations, vibrant drumming, historical artifacts, colorful and rich fabrics, informative health and wellness workshops, as well fascinating entertainment.
The “Dee Parmer Woodtor Main Stage” (named co-founder and late wife of Patrick Woodtor), has featured explosive performances by legendary entertainers such as James Brown, Hugh Masekela, Roberta Flack, Chaka Khan, Erykah Badu, Angelique Kidjo, Bobby Womack, Gil Scott Heron, Nona Hendryx, Dwele, Goapele, George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic, Slave, Les McCann, Rachelle Ferrell, Kool and the Gang, The Brothers Johnson, and Kindred the Family Soul to name a few.
This year, 2011, Grammy-Award winning artists India Arie and Mary Mary will join the illustrious list of Festival performers.
AFA also boasts a food court rich in delectable and authentic African-cuisine. Experience exotic fare from the diverse cultures of Africa including Egusi from Nigeria; Wolof rice from Senegal; Jerk chicken, goat-meat and fish from the Caribbean; and other spicy, appetizing dishes from across the African Diaspora. And don’t miss out on the distinct Cajun and Soul foods from the different corners of the world.
A preeminent highlight of the Festival is its all-encompassing Fine Arts Pavilion showcasing collectible photography and fine art including original oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, charcoal, graphite, and works of limited editions, as well as sculptures in metal, wood, and mixed media. The best artists and works of wearable art and jewelry are also featured in the Fine Arts Pavilion. Notable contemporary visual artists, craft-makers and independent art gallery owners credit the Festival with launching and fortifying their careers.
Importantly, the fine art program continues to educate collectors and beginning collectors on art in general. Dana Easter is this year’s featured artist whose work is showcased on al 2011 Festival materials. Dana Easter will be joined in the Pavilion by Uwa Hunwick, Woodrow Nash, Frank Frazier, Melvin King, Rondell, Stacy Brown, Nii-Oti, Dimali, Isodor Howard and Dayo Laoye, who also serves as the pavilion coordinator.
Festival goers also experience the Book Pavilion where best-selling and emerging authors share their cultural interpretations and the legacy of storytelling in the Griot tradition.
Browse the website pavilion descriptions and programming information.
Information is updated frequently and is subject to change.
2011 African Festival of th
e Arts Featured Artist is Dana Easter. Dana has grown up in the Festival family since its inception. We are proud of her artistry and her unique wearable arts and fashions. It is with great pride that her art work is featured as the theme piece for this year.
