Toronto exhibit highlights hip hop's global cultural influence

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) has launched a new exhibit called The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century. This exhibit shows the global impact of hip hop through various art forms, including painting, photography, sculpture, video, and fashion. It is open until April 6 and is the only Canadian stop for this exhibition. The exhibit is inspired by the hip hop saying, "[do it] for the culture." This phrase highlights the importance of staying true to hip hop's roots and values. The exhibition also honors Toronto's significant contributions to both contemporary art and hip hop culture. Among the featured artists is Caitlin Cronenberg, known for her famous photo of the CN Tower on Drake's Views album cover. Other artists include Craig Boyko, who created a portrait of a young Snoop Dogg, and Patrick Nichols, who captured images of Toronto's hip hop pioneers. The exhibit is curated by a group of experienced art professionals, including Asma Naeem and Gamynne Guillotte. It showcases more than 100 pieces, including works by Julie Mehretu and Alvaro Barrington, who pays tribute to Tupac Shakur. Julie Crooks, curator at AGO, emphasized the importance of including Canadian artists in the discussion about hip hop. She stated that the artwork on display reflects hip hop's diverse nature and its ability to challenge traditional notions of beauty and power.