We Are Gumbo: 10 Years of Afro‑Diasporic Spacemaking

A Decade of Sound and Solidarity

If you spent any time in Toronto’s nightlife scene over the last ten years, you likely felt the gravitational pull of Gumbo. More than just a DJ series, Gumbo became a sanctuary—a space where the Afro-diasporic experience was not just represented, but celebrated with unapologetic intensity. This May, as part of the Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival, co-founders Wan and Chi are pulling back the curtain on that legacy with *We Are Gumbo: 10 Years of Afro-Diasporic Spacemaking* at It’s Ok* Studios. This isn’t a dusty retrospective; it is a vibrant, tactile reanimation of the energy that made Gumbo a cornerstone of the city’s cultural landscape.

More Than Just a Gallery Show

Forget the hushed, hands-off atmosphere of traditional galleries. *We Are Gumbo* is designed to be lived in. The exhibition space at It’s Ok* Studios—a venue already known for its raw, industrial charm and commitment to community-driven arts—will be transformed into an immersive environment. Expect to navigate ceiling-to-floor layered poster walls that document the visual evolution of the brand, alongside photo-wrapped carton stacks and looping video collages that capture the sweat, the smiles, and the sheer kinetic energy of the dance floor.

The photography here is the heartbeat of the show. With lenses from Tai Bah, Yannick Anton, and Yemi Adegbasan, the exhibition captures the intimacy of the crowd and the artistry of the performers. Complementing these images are the iconic, graphic-heavy poster works of Chinedu Ukabam, whose designs have long been synonymous with the Gumbo aesthetic. By incorporating archival collaborations from heavy hitters like BlackPowerBarbie, Ramón Charles, Mz Icar, the poet Randell Adjei, and Komi Olaf, the curators have created a "Black Atlantic" frame that connects Toronto’s local scene to a broader, global narrative of resistance and joy.

Engage, Remix, and Remember

What makes this exhibition truly special is its refusal to be static. Wan and Chi have curated a space that invites participation rather than passive observation. Throughout the ten-day run, the studio will host a series of public programs that bridge the gap between art and action. Whether you’re interested in the mechanics of design, the power of oral history through artist conversations, or the communal act of sharing music during the 'bring-your-own-music' listening sessions, there is an open invitation to contribute to the archive.

Make sure to carve out time for the closing event: a live recording of Radio Gumbo. It’s a rare chance to see the extended Gumbo family of DJs back in their element, soundtracking the very history they helped create. And before you leave, hit the pop-up kiosk. Beyond the limited-edition merch, they’re promising a curated spread of nostalgic treats—a nod to the comfort and community that Gumbo always provided.

Getting There & Good to Know

It’s Ok* Studios is tucked away at 468 Queen Street West. It’s a prime location, situated right in the thick of the Queen West strip. If you’re coming by transit, the 501 Queen streetcar is your best bet, dropping you steps from the door.

Since this is part of the CONTACT Photography Festival, expect high foot traffic, especially on weekends. While some programming is free, you’ll need to RSVP to secure your spot, and certain events will be ticketed. Check the official Gumbo and CONTACT festival websites early—this is a homecoming for many, and space will fill up quickly.

**Pro Tip:** Before or after your visit, walk a few blocks east to grab a coffee at one of the independent cafes near Spadina, or head west toward Trinity Bellwoods Park if you need a moment to process the sensory overload of the exhibition. It’s the perfect neighbourhood to soak in the creative energy that Gumbo helped foster.