Temple of Acacia
Artwork by Dario Mohr
Temple of Acacia is dedicated to the spiritual practices of West Africa that have been and continue to be suppressed in the U.S. cultural zeitgeist. The Acacia tree is native to many regions of Africa, and became the primary icon representing the diverse tribal nations from which people of the African diaspora in the Americas are descended.
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Enjoy this virtual tour slide show of the exhibition, photographed by Etienne Frossard.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Dario Mohr (he/him) is a first generation Grenadian U.S. citizen born in 1988. Based in New York City, Mohr is an interdisciplinary artist, educator and non-profit leader. He received a BFA in Painting from Buffalo State College, an MFA in Studio Art from The City College of New York and an Advanced Certificate from Queens College. His work involves the creation of “sacred spaces” referencing his heritage, and expressing commentary on the cultural zeitgeist through immersive sanctuary experiences. His practice is interdisciplinary, converging painting, sculpture, installation, digital art and film, with creative reuse being a major part. Many leftover works from previous concentrations end up recycled and repurposed for new art. As a result, his work is constantly evolving, with each iteration building upon its associative complexity. He intends for people to relive or recontextualize memories, construct new narratives, and explore new perspectives and philosophies through their associations to the objects assembled within many of the works. He hopes that his audience can engage with and embrace the varied themes presented in the sacred spaces he creates either through their faith or decontextualized from religion.
Recently, Mohr has accompanied his work with performances, including “The Archetype Activation Ritual” presented in tandem with his solo show presented as artist in residence at Materials For the Arts. He also began presenting in public spaces, with notable works including “Sow the Seeds” created during his 2021 Fellowship with ArtBridge, and “Revelations Across Generations” exhibited during his solo exhibit at the Lewis Latimer House Museum. In addition to his individual art practice, he is also the Founder and Director of AnkhLave Arts Alliance, Inc., a non-profit arts organization for the recognition and representation of BIPOC artists in contemporary art.
