January 24, 2014 6:00-9:00 PM Opening of "Magic Ladders" with performances by The Pagode Project, Luigi Mazzocchi and Rich Medina

Another groundbreaking exhibit is about to land in Philly. On January 24, The Barnes Foundation will open Magic Ladders, featuring work by international art sensation Yinka Shonibare. A British artist of Nigerian descent, Shonibare's colorful and thought-provoking work has been shown all across the US and Europe, and explores European art and history through the lens of race, colonialization, slavery and commerce.

The exhibit includes approximately 15 of Shonibare's colorful and and imaginative creations, including paintings, photographs, a full-room installation, and his signature life-sized mannequins dressed in the colorful Dutch wax fabrics produced in Europe but most closely associated with Africa. The collection will also include a newly commissioned piece entitled Magic Ladders.

Through Shonibare's eye-catching work, The Barnes continues to explore the life and legacy of its founder, Dr. Albert Barnes—specifically his interest in collecting and displaying work made by African artists. By placing these works alongside paintings by Pablo Picasso and other well-known art masters, The Barnes became one of the first institutions to present African art work as fine art, and acknowledge its influence on the global art scene.

Magic Ladders opens on January 24, with a night of live music and performance
featuring DJ Rich Medina, Luigi Mazzocchi & The Pagode Project, and of course, special guest Shonibare. Just be sure sure to make your reservation in advance, because you definitely will want to be in the building when The Barnes opens this exhibit, and takes art on The Parkway to the next level.

6–7:30 p.m. Luigi Mazzocchi & The Pagode Project
7:30–9 p.m. Rich Medina

Where: The Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy

Cost: $25 Open Night | $20 Members | $35 Artist Talk