This week I attended the opening reception for the, “Dandy Lion: Articulating a Re(de)fined Black Masculine Identity” exhibit at the Aljira Center for Contemporary Art in Newark, N.J. The Dandy Lion exhibition is, “a collection of photography by 10 artists exploring the phenomenon of Black Dandyism throughout the African Diaspora.” If you’re unaware of the Dandy Movement check the video & brief description by curator Shantrelle P. Lewis.

“A refreshing exhibition, guest curated by Shantrelle P. Lewis, Dandy Lion: Articulating a Re(de)fined Black Masculine Identity takes a glance at urban Black Dandies who like their continental African counterparts, Le Sapeur of Brazzaville, Congo, embody style, sophistication and a commitment to culture via dramatized masculinity. This exhibition is an examination and approbation of the contemporary dandy in Diasporan settings. Dandy Lion is an homage to the fashionable urban gentleman – an African Diasporan man of style, an urban connoisseur of sophistication and a contemporary man of extraordinary swagger.”

Dandy Lion Exhibit Video Flyer – Opening Reception 10.27.11 from Shantrelle Lewis on Vimeo.

I had a good time here at this exhibition. Good to meet the photographers/artists & Curator of this great work. If you missed the opening ceremony event  with live D.J., meet and greet,white wine & refeshments don’t worry.The exhibit will be on display until December 22nd, 2011. I did not take any pics of the artists work because this is something that you should go out, support & see for yourself. LUXE.

For more info and all artist participants visit http://www.aljira.org/

Aljira Gallery

591 Broad Street

Newark, N.J. 07102