TORONTO.- Today at news conference hosted at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) by Scotiabank Caribana Festival, the ROM announced it will present From the Soul: Caribana Art Exhibit from July 22 to August 3, 2010. On display during and after the Scotiabank Caribana Festival, the exhibition represents the largest single juried display of works of art by African Canadian artists. Curated by renowned African-Canadian artist and activist, Joan Butterfield, the exhibition is produced by the Association of African Canadian Artists, in conjunction with Scotiabank Caribana and the ROM. From the Soul will be on display in the Museum’s Bronfman Hall, Level 2 during the 12-day citywide festival.

“The Scotiabank Caribana Festival is a significant annual event advancing cultural celebration in the City of Toronto. The ROM is proud to present From the Soul and offer festival attendees, Torontonians and visitors to the city the opportunity to experience a unique and powerful exhibition celebrating African Canadian art,” said William Thorsell, ROM Director and CEO.

More than 100 works on canvas, several Caribana parade costumes, three dimensional bronze sculptures and award-winning ceramic pieces will be on display. Exhibition curator Ms. Butterfield said, “This collection of works will arouse the conscious, still the mind and soothe the soul. Our goal is to attract a new and expanded audience to this exhibition with the hope of inspiring others with the message of courage, love and respect prevalent throughout the displays. Art is an expression of life around us and a powerful way to bring difficult topics of discussion out in the open.”