Krystal Ball’s Black Diamond mural was inspired by a Marcus Garvey quote, “a people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” The mural explores the past through the use of patterns on a path to represent pre-colonialism, slavery, segregation and freedom. A female figure is shown in the center, outlined by and reflecting silver to represent strength, beauty, and resistance. Silver is also used to commemorate Kuumba’s 25th anniversary.

The leaves represent growth, and help viewers reflect on our responsibility to know our roots. The surrealist elements achieve a sense of divinity, but the composition is relatable thanks to the use of cultural memorabilia. The female figure adorns herself with a Maasai neckpiece typically worn by married women in Kenya, which symbolizes the union of our past and present.

FREE

Part of KUUMBA25 - Toronto’s longest running Black History Month festival.