Overview
Part of ArtworxTO.
Toronto-born, international artist Robert Young created UNMASK FEAR in response to the devastating global pandemic and the international outcry for racial justice. This critical, multiple content series features photographic portraiture and filmed stories of Black Canadians who have made remarkable contributions to community, culture and country. Robert Young’s campaign began in Washington, DC on June 5, 2020, with the highly recognized self-portrait NO FEAR, the first of many large-scale public art activations. Young is also responsible for the creative ideation of another large-scale public art activation – the world-famous Black Lives Matter mural on 16th Street in front of the White House.
UNMASK FEAR, commissioned by Harbourfront Centre as part of ArtworxTO: Toronto’s Year of Public Art 2021-2022, expands NO FEAR to tell the stories of Black Canadians to inspire, entertain, uplift and transform the perspective of people of the African Diaspora that so proudly call Canada home.
Take in these larger-than-life portraits installed on the windows of Harbourfront Centre’s Main Building, with associated links to watch related interviews of the participants online. Those interviewed offer personal, detailed, and uncut expressions of triumph and success achieved by overcoming their fears and following their passions.
robertyoungiam.com
@robertyoungiam