Black Artists, Craftsmen and Cultural Performers

The
International African Arts, Crafts and Culture Fair (IAACCF)
is a vibrant multicultural event that celebrates the richness, creativity, and diversity of African heritage and its global influence. Based in Canada, the fair brings together artists, craftsmen, performers, cultural practitioners, and audiences from around the world to showcase authentic African art, design, music, fashion, and traditions. Beyond exhibitions, IAACCF serves as a platform for cultural exchange, networking, and empowerment—promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and sustainable growth in the creative industries.

Role Summary

Black artists, craftsmen, and cultural performers exhibiting at the International African Arts, Crafts and Culture Fair (IAACCF) are vital contributors to the celebration and preservation of African and diasporic heritage. These exhibitors showcase visual arts, handmade crafts, fashion, sculpture, literature, music, dance, spoken word, and other cultural expressions that reflect both traditional and contemporary Black creativity.

Their role is to engage attendees through authentic artistic presentations, live demonstrations, and cultural performances that educate, inspire, and promote cross-cultural understanding. Exhibitors serve as ambassadors of their culture—sharing stories, techniques, and perspectives that uplift the global appreciation of African arts and traditions.

Key Responsibilities

Artistic & Cultural Showcase

• Display and present high-quality artworks, crafts, or performances that reflect African or diasporic heritage.
• Participate in scheduled showcases, performances, or panel discussions when applicable.
• Provide accurate cultural context or storytelling behind their work to enhance audience learning.

Engagement & Interaction

• Interact professionally and respectfully with attendees, buyers, media, and partnering organizations.
• Offer live demonstrations, workshops, or Q&A sessions when required.
• Help create a vibrant and welcoming cultural environment.

Sales & Exhibition Management

• Maintain a clean, organized, and attractive exhibition or vendor space.
• Manage inventory, pricing, and sales transactions independently.
• Adhere to IAACCF guidelines for booth setup, security, and operations.

Collaboration & Representation

• Collaborate with IAACCF staff, volunteers, and fellow exhibitors to support the flow of the event.
• Represent IAACCF with integrity, authenticity, and professionalism.
• Uphold cultural respect and avoid misrepresentation of traditions, symbols, or practices.

Compliance & Safety

• Follow all IAACCF rules, event-day instructions, and safety protocols.
• Ensure all materials, products, or performance items comply with venue and regulatory requirements.
• Respect timelines for setup, exhibition hours, and teardown.

Qualifications

Experience & Skill

• Demonstrated artistic ability, craftsmanship, or performance talent rooted in African or Black cultural traditions.
• A portfolio, performance sample, or product catalog is recommended.
• Previous experience exhibiting or performing at cultural events is an asset, not a requirement.

Cultural Understanding

• Strong knowledge of the cultural, historical, or symbolic meaning of the work being presented.
• Commitment to promoting authenticity and cultural integrity.

Professional Attributes

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Reliability, punctuality, and professional conduct throughout the event.

Business Readiness (for craft & art vendors)

• Ability to manage pricing, sales, and inventory.
• Clear product labeling, packaging, or branding is encouraged.

Exhibitor Code of Conduct

Professionalism

• Treat attendees, staff, and fellow exhibitors with respect, courtesy, and cultural sensitivity.
• Avoid discriminatory, offensive, or culturally inappropriate behavior.

Cultural Integrity

• Present only original work or properly sourced handmade items.
• Avoid cultural appropriation, misrepresentation, or false claims about traditions or ancestry.
• Respect the diversity of Black cultures across Africa and the diaspora.

Fair Practice

• Maintain transparent pricing and honest communication with customers.
• Honor any pre-agreed commitments related to performances, workshops, or sales.

Respect for the Event

• Follow all IAACCF guidelines, schedules, and operational instructions.
• Follow the IAACC Curatorial Strategy
• Conform with the IAACCF Platform Outline
• Keep the exhibition space clean, safe, and welcoming at all times.

Community Spirit

• Contribute positively to the cultural exchange environment.
• Support fellow artists and help foster unity within the IAACCF community.