(NEWARK, NJ) -- Akwaaba Gallery is proud to present "Patterns: People in Transition," the second solo exhibition of New Jersey born artist, Martryce Roach.  The exhibition features a collection of brand new paintings, ranging in size, that explore the rich history of the Great Migration and its synergy with blues music.  The exhibition will be on view through August 15, 2025 with an opening reception on Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm.

Akwaaba Gallery in Newark is proud to present “Patterns: People in Transition,’’ the second solo exhibition of New Jersey born artist, Martryce Roach.  The exhibition features a collection of brand new paintings, ranging in size, that explore the rich history of the Great Migration and its synergy with blues music.  The exhibition will be on view through August 15, 2025 with an opening reception on Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 6 – 9pm. 

This exhibition will showcase 30 new pieces on canvas examining the period from 1916 through 1970, when millions of African Americans journeyed North and Midwest from the Jim Crow South, changing the landscapes of major cities across the country and shaping American culture, particularly through the confrontation of oppression, the evolution of civil rights and rejuvenation from new opportunities. 

Save the Date for PATTERNS: PEOPLE IN TRANSITION, a powerful solo exhibition that honors African American history and culture through visual storytelling.

This is the radical story of the evolution of blues music that accompanied the Great Migration. Highlighting the unyielding and creative spirit of resilience, it explores historic challenges and celebrates the skillful exploration of hopes and fears during the journey from the south to the north and midwest 1916-1970.  Figures and scenes are layered with timely symbols that represent urgent reminders of hard truths.  The narrative, like the music, reflects the perseverance of the people, collective trauma, uncertainty, resilience, rejection of limitations, and the manifestation of hope.  It is important to remember how art has always energized our resistance, assisted us to cope, and instructed us how to navigate burdens.

Black Art Energy!

Come outside and check out the amazing art on display celebrating Black history. I’m highlighting my emerging favorites from the Midwest to the East coast – with special attention on NEW JERSEY.