The Hip-Hop Canvas: Beats, Art & Fashion event brought together an eclectic mix of music, dance, fashion, visual art, and poetry in honor of Black History Month. Held at The Lab at Ciné, the event captivated attendees with a powerful celebration of Black culture.
Montu Miller, an educator at Cedar Shoals High School and master of ceremonies for the night, expressed that the event was more than just a performance—it was a full-bodied immersion into the richness of Black heritage. Miller, a member of the ATHfactor-Liberty Entertainment team, which organizes Black History Month performances annually, emphasized the event’s deeper significance: “It’s an experience—a full body appreciation of Black culture.”
Among those in attendance was Maxim Watkins, a business partner at Nony’s Cheesecakes and a longtime Athens resident. Watkins, who has supported the local hip-hop scene since his arrival in the city, highlighted the powerful role hip-hop culture plays in the Black community. “Hip-hop culture is freedom. It’s expression. It’s a big part of life, especially in the Black community,” Watkins said.
The night unfolded with a dynamic series of performances, starting with a spirited dance routine by the League of Step. DJ ChiefRocka and Miller guided the audience through the evening, which also featured live art by Broderick Flanigan and musical sets by artists like LB, Frank Eagle, 96 Vision, Sho, and It’s Izu. Soulful vocals by Stella Groove and IAMTIKICA added to the rich cultural tapestry.
In a true reflection of the hip-hop community’s spirit of connection, Miller encouraged attendees to meet someone new, fostering a sense of unity. “Introduce yourself to a stranger,” he urged, embodying the collaborative and inclusive essence of both hip-hop and the Athens community.
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