Christina Leslie’s Artistic Journey Comes Full Circle with New Exhibition ‘Likkle Acts’

Toronto, Canada – Christina Leslie, a Jamaican-Canadian artist whose work intricately weaves themes of identity, history, and community, is set to open her latest exhibition, Likkle Acts, at The Robert McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa. The exhibition will have its opening reception on Saturday, November 30, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, marking another milestone in her illustrious career.

Leslie’s connection to the arts community began in earnest in 2010 when she debuted her Miss-Perceived series at Toronto’s BAND Gallery, a space renowned for championing Black artists and voices. Reflecting on that experience, Leslie described how working with BAND challenged her to think more deeply about her craft. This collaboration blossomed into a meaningful relationship, with Leslie returning to BAND Gallery in 2020 for Absence/Presence: Morant Bay, an introspective series exploring her Jamaican-Canadian roots, and again in 2023 with Sugar Coat, which examined the dark history of sugar production and slavery in the Caribbean.

“BAND’s efforts to create spaces for marginalized voices and foster a strong sense of community have been invaluable,” Leslie said, highlighting the gallery’s role in shaping her artistic journey.

Currently represented by Stephen Bulger Gallery, Leslie views Likkle Acts as a homecoming. The series reflects her growth as an artist and her connection to Jamaica, as well as her ties to Durham Region, where she resides.

BAND Gallery, which has served as a launchpad for many artists and curators, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. In recognition of the gallery’s vital contributions to nurturing Black artistry, BAND is calling for support this Giving Tuesday. Their fundraising goal of $15,000 will help sustain the gallery’s mission to provide a platform for underrepresented voices.

To further support Leslie’s practice and engage with her work, BAND is organizing an art excursion to the Likkle Acts opening reception in Oshawa.

For more information or to RSVP, visit BAND Gallery’s website. Contributions toward their Giving Tuesday campaign will help ensure that the gallery continues to thrive as a cornerstone of Toronto’s Black arts community.

Donate today and be part of a legacy that empowers artists and shapes our cultural narrative.