Meet The Artists
Jamelle
Davis
Website: www.itsJDArt.com
@itsJDArt
Jamelle Davis, known professionally as JD Art, is an internationally recognized artist whose work blends abstract expression with realistic storytelling. Drawing inspiration from his roots in London, JD’s art reflects the diverse cultures and communities he has encountered across the globe, with murals in Berlin, Canada, and beyond. His distinctive approach invites viewers into vibrant worlds where every brushstroke is infused with purpose and connection. With a focus on creating art that sparks conversation, JD continues to merge street and fine art, challenging perceptions and evoking emotion.
Charlene
Johnson
Instagram: Charlene.artist
Website: Charleneartist.com
Based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, I am an abstract expressionist whose work celebrates the complexities of identity and emotion. My journey into abstraction began as a way to overcome artist block and confront the internalized “strong Black woman” trope—a stereotype that often denies Black women the recognition of their tenderness and vulnerability. Through whimsical brushstrokes and dreamy pastels, I disrupt this narrative, embracing femininity, joy, and delicate strength. My art invites women of color to see themselves in my energetic mark-making and soft palettes, inspiring them to honor the boundless beauty and complexity of their existence.
Dara
Ojo
Website: explorewithdara.com
Instagram: @explorewithdara
Facebook: @explorewithdara
Threads: @explorewithdara
X (formerly Twitter): @explorewithdara
Dara Ojo, born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria and now calling Edmonton home, is a wildlife photographer specializing in uncovering the hidden beauty of arthropods. His passion for macro photography began during the pandemic in China, where he first explored the intricate and fascinating world of insects.
Since then, Dara has captured breathtaking images across diverse landscapes, from Alberta’s untamed wild spaces to the lush jungles of Costa Rica. Through his lens, he highlights the often-overlooked creatures that play vital roles in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems. Dara’s work invites viewers to marvel at nature’s tiny yet mighty wonders, inspiring curiosity and a deeper commitment to conservation.
Favour
Olayinka
Abimbola
Instagram: @favoursdailydigest
TikTok: @favoursdailydigest
YouTube: @favoursdailydigest
Email: foabimbo@gmail.com
Favour Olayinka Abimbola is a Nigerian-Canadian artist whose creative journey began in Nigeria and has flourished since her move to Canada in 2016. Working with conte, oil pastels, and acrylics, her art is recognized for its vibrant colors, bold contrasts, and expressive energy. Inspired by traditional Nigerian art and her love for storytelling, Favour’s work explores themes of connection, culture, and shared experiences. Her pieces have been featured at venues such as the Winspear Centre, Lumen Christian School, and the Garneau Theatre, captivating audiences with their vivid imagery and heartfelt expression.
Jabari
Broodhagen
@brood.inks
Email: broodhagenjabari@gmail.com
Tele: 780-918-2959
Jabari Broodhagen is a Canadian-born visual artist of Jamaican and Barbadian heritage, based in Edmonton, Alberta. His work explores identity and representation through bold colors and a mix of acrylic, graphite, charcoal, and aerosol.
With a passion for visual storytelling, Jabari continues to evolve his art, immersing viewers in vivid depictions of Black Canadian history and culture
About
The 5A1L exhibit at the Art Gallery of Alberta is coming February 22 - March 30/2025! When it’s open, come down to see the pieces from this year’s 5 artists, and don’t forget to celebrate with us on January 27! If you’re interested in submitting to the 5A1L exhibit, check out “The Wall”, which is a section dedicated to community pieces. This year’s theme is "The Culture!”. To submit to The Wall, have a 12 inch x 12 inch piece ready by Jan 4/2024.
