Albany, NY (August 5, 2000) - - - Rev. Michael A. Farano, Chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority today announced the opening of the Albany International Airport Gallery's latest exhibition Sankofa: Celebrating 25 Years of Black Dimensions in Art, Inc. The exhibition marks the anniversary of BDA, a non-profit organization that celebrates the rich cultural legacy of art from the African Diaspora through its presentation of exhibitions, publications and educational programs.

The exhibition opens August 12th and will run through November 27th in the Airport's third floor gallery. A public reception is scheduled on Thursday, August 17, from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Sankofa, chronicles the past three decades of major exhibitions presented by BDA from the 1970's, 80's, and 90's which include works by renowned artists Romare Bearden, Hale Woodruff and Jacob Lawrence. The exhibition also includes paintings, sculpture and textiles from more than 25 contemporary artists. Sankofa is actually a mythical bird found within the cultural history of the Akan ethnic group in West Africa.

"This legendary creature is often characterized in sculpture and prints as a bird that moves forward while facing backward. It is said that this image represents the importance of retrieving the wisdom and knowledge of the past in preparation for effectively moving forward into the future," said Stephen J. Tyson, Sr., co-curator of the exhibit.

Participating artists include: Ken Allen, Robert Blackburn, "Nita"June Borland, Ashley Bryan, Dana Chandler, Stanwyck Cromwell, Miki Conn, Margaret Cunningham, Fern Cunningham, Francelise Dawkins, Benigh Enous, Roland L. Freeman, Paul Goodnight, Barry Irving, I. Joseph, Chief Olu Komalafe, Al Loving, Jerome Meadows, Geraldine McCullough, Otto Neals, Nefretiti, Ademola Olugebefola, Catherine Reavis, Frank Wimberley, Jack White, Barbara Zuber.

The Albany International Airport is committed to showcasing the artistic heritage of the region through its ongoing Art and Culture program. Exhibitions that feature the works of contemporary artists and regional cultural institutions are presented throughout the terminal on a rotating basis. Albany International Airport Gallery hours are from 6:00 a.m. 11:00 p.m. daily. For additional information, please contact Liz Blum at 518 242-2240.

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