emmanuel_abiodun_aderele_web.jpgDORAL — A multicultural group of arts and music enthusiasts gathered in the central reception area of the Intercontinental Hotel in Doral recently, flanked by sacred Yoruba paintings, for an evening of sacred Yoruba art, dance and music.

“These festivities are all in celebration of Prince Emmanuel Abiodun Aderele’s African American History Month Sacred Yoruba Art Exhibition opening,” said Chief Nathaniel B. Styles Jr.

Prince has been in the United States for the past year as an international artist in residence with the Osun’s Village and African Caribbean Cultural Arts Corridor, a project of the South Florida-based International nonprofit organization Community Builders HDC.

“The Osun’s Village and African Caribbean Cultural Arts Corridor’s International Arts  Exchange program focuses on utilizing the arts as a tool for community character building and economic development,” said Chief Styles Jr., the initiative’s executive director, and co-visionary along with architect Harlan E. Woodard.

“The cultural exchange facilitates cultural understanding and economic empowerment for participating artists and their families,” he said.

Prince Aderele was joined onstage during the opening cocktail reception Feb. 10 by a group of legendary musicians and young percussionists he is mentoring.

Photo: Prince Emmanuel Abiodun Aderele