African Voices Magazine Honors Harry Belafonte and Showcases Watson Mere's Art

African Voices magazine is set to host an opening exhibition for Brooklyn artist Watson Mere and a launch celebration for its special issue dedicated to the art and activism of Harry Belafonte. The event, free and open to the public, will feature contributions from the issue's writers, including Gia Anasi-Shakur, and aims to celebrate Belafonte's legacy as an 'Artvist' who used his platform for civil rights advocacy.

The magazine, celebrating 33 years of publishing art and literature by artists of color, faces challenges after being defunded by the National Endowment for the Arts, making the event also a fundraiser. Spelman College is archiving the organization's art collection, ensuring its accessibility for future generations. Watson Mere's commissioned portrait of Belafonte for the magazine's cover captures the activist's regality and compassionate gaze, symbolizing his enduring influence.

Limited copies of the Spring 2025 digital issue will be available, with the Harry Belafonte issue releasing in August. The event underscores the importance of preserving cultural institutions and the role of art in social justice movements.