King Cosmos drops us a line

I was there this Saturday and was absolutely blown away by the scope of the exhibit –  everything from the live steelpan music, played so beautifully by Suzette Vidale and Earl La Pierre Jr, two of Toronto’s finest. While the music moved me to dance, Zak Ove’s amazing Moko Jumbie sculpture also engaged me fully as I entered Walker’s Court where it is exhibited. I spent almost a full hour just taking in the music and being mesmerized by Moko.

Because of another appointment, I almost left without seeing FRAGMENTS on the 5th Floor. However, my buddy, well-known carnival photographer, Anthony Berot, urged me to see it. I’m so glad that I listened.

We went to the 5th Floor together and I was blown away. The artifacts in the exhibit include photographs, paintings, sculptures and videos, which show fragments of the historical and cultural development of Trinidad and Tobago and some other Caribbean islands, from the 19th century on. Breathtaking!!!

I was also fortunate enough to reconnect with Julie Crooks, the Curator of this exhibit. Yes, she’s the sister of famed Canadian athlete and Olympian, Charmaine Crooks.

Julie is also a York University alumna. We reminisced a bit about our days on campus; but spoke mainly about the exhibit. I couldn’t praise and compliment her enough.

FRAGMENTS is a knockout, a must see, even if you are not of Caribbean background. At the AGO until February 21, 2022.

Single Ticket: $25.00 Season Pass: $35.00

Curated by Dr. Julie Crooks.

The AGO is at 317 Dundas Street West