To the Beat of the Drum
- Open Edition
- Measures 17x23 inches in size.
- Afrocentric Theme
- Commissioned by the Umoja African Arts Company in 2004 for the 1st Annual African Arts in the Park Festival of Pittsburgh, PA.
- Offset Lithograph
African dance and African drums are intricately connected and often go hand in hand. They are both essential components of traditional African music and cultural expression. In many African cultures, dance, and drumming are deeply intertwined and are integral parts of various ceremonies, rituals, celebrations, and everyday life.
African dance is a form of artistic expression that reflects the rich cultural heritage of different African ethnic groups. It incorporates a wide range of movements, gestures, and rhythms that convey specific meanings, tells stories, and express emotions. Dance in African cultures is often characterized by energetic footwork, rhythmic body movements, intricate choreography, and vibrant costumes.
African drums, on the other hand, play a central role in providing the rhythmic foundation for African music and dance. Drums in African cultures come in various shapes and sizes, such as djembes, talking drums, dunun, and many others. Each type of drum produces distinct sounds and is used for specific purposes. The drumming serves as a means of communication, conveying messages, and transmitting cultural traditions through rhythm and beats.
This open edition release by Poncho explores this connection and depicts two African dancers and one African drummer connecting spiritually and rhythmically as they express themselves, celebrate the past and present, and give honor to the ancestors.
This work of art was originally commissioned and created in 2004 for the UMOJA African Arts Company to commemorate the 1st Annual African Arts In The Park Festival of Pittsburgh, PA.
The UMOJA African Arts Company is a performing arts organization dedicated to promoting and preserving African culture through various artistic disciplines. The company's name, "UMOJA," is a Swahili word meaning "unity" and reflects their commitment to celebrating the diversity and richness of African heritage.
UMOJA African Arts Company was founded in 1997 by Jackie Gaskin, a dancer and choreographer from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. The company is based in Philadelphia but has performed internationally, sharing African arts and culture with audiences around the world.
The company specializes in African dance, music, drumming, storytelling, and other forms of traditional African performance arts.
| Edition | Open Edition |
| Framed | Unframed |
| Height | 17 inches |
| Length | 23 inches |
| Medium | Paper |
| Signed | Unsigned |
| SKU | poncho-drumbeat |
| Year Released | 2004 |
Larry "Poncho" Brown
Larry "Poncho" Brown, a native of Baltimore, MD, is a renowned artist known for his captivating and diverse body of work. With a career spanning over several decades, Poncho emerged as a talented signwriter at the young age of 17 and has since dedicated his life to the world of art. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from the Maryland Institute College of Art, he has graced the pages of esteemed publications such as Upscale, Ebony, Essence, and Jet magazines with his extraordinary art, both fine and commercial. Poncho's creations have also garnered attention in various television shows and movies, including "A Different World," "The Wire," and "Soulfood," captivating audiences with his vibrant and thought-provoking pieces. With a client list boasting esteemed names like Camille Cosby and Anita Baker, as well as his works displayed in prestigious institutions like the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, Poncho's influence and appeal extend far and wide. Alongside his artistic pursuits, Poncho is dedicated to philanthropy, having founded Raising The Arts, a platform that has contributed over 70 images to support non-profit organizations and African American causes. Additionally, he co-founded the Creative Quarantine, a collaborative effort with fellow artists, where the month of January is dedicated to creating new experimental works. Poncho's art resonates with admirers for its captivating rhythm, movement, and unity, as he skillfully merges past and present artistic stylizations to convey a sense of realism, mysticism, and beauty. Through his creations, Poncho pays homage to his personal values and consistently explores themes of unity, family, and spirituality, making his art universally appealing and awe-inspiring.Most in stock items ship in 0 to 5 business depending upon the shipping method selected during checkout. Large framed artwork requires an additional 1 to 5 days of processing time to allow for framing. All orders over $250 ship signature required. Pre-Orders, identified by a “Reserve Now” checkout button, can take 3 to 14 business days to process and ship. If there is an issue with your order we will notify you with 1 to 2 business days. For additional information please visit our: Shipping Policy
