Toronto artist Ishmil Waterman to launch new exhibit “Rapture” Nov 2, 2019

Toronto-based photographer and visionary, Ishmil Waterman has officially released the dates for his debut solo exhibit entitled, “Rapture”. The highly anticipated event is set to launch at the Super Wonder Gallery in Toronto and will be open to the public on November 2nd and 3rd. Rapture marks the first official gallery presentation of the internationally-renowned photographer’s career. 

Contributing to Toronto’s arts and cultural communities for the last 13 years has laid an incredible foundation for Waterman as a photographer, creative director and mentor. His mastered knowledge of lighting and keen eye for capturing the perfect moment are present in each of his works which are opulent and breathtaking. In 2016, his digital series titled Activated Melanin was featured in Afropunk for it’s thought-provoking visuals and in 2017, Vogue Italia picked up his fashion-forward and unusual series, titled Neptune 7º34.

After a two year hiatus from the public eye, the 31-year-old is ready to share what he calls a “one-of-a-kind experience” as well as a “captivating and timeless display of visual and digital arts”. The promotional content released on the artist’s Instagram account is a breathtaking series of pictures and videos, each donning multiple bodies in the nude floating toward a source of light over a backdrop of a stunningly surreal sky.   

Ishmil says society exists in a time where inequality is prevalent in all aspects of society. “On a global scale, the achievements of black people have been widely understated for as long as history and my art seeks to overthrow any establishment that is based on supremacy”  explains Waterman. “I want to speak for black art, design and literature.”

Rapture goes the extra mile in delivering a message of self-love and identifying the different layers of beauty with the affirmation, “Embrace your Highness”. Not only does the series seems to be shaking the norms of conventional art, it is also pushing the envelope on people of colour being depicted in spiritual iconography. 

Focusing primarily on Digital Art and Technology, attendees will get the opportunity to experience the 13 exhilarating and life-like images that make up the series. The event is an opportunity to ignite change in Toronto’s arts community, inviting viewers on a journey of self-discovery to re-learn the concepts of inner-peace and admiration. Early bird tickets to the 18+ exhibit are being sold on Waterman’s website for $25. Follow Ishmil on social media @IshmilWaterman to experience the making of Rapture and more exclusive content on the event. 

DATE: Saturday, November 2nd, 2019 through Sunday, November 3rd, 2019

LOCATION: Super Wonder Gallery 584 College Street, Toronto, ON, M6G 1B3,

TIME: 5pm – 12am each day

ADMISSION: $25 Early Bird Tickets before November 1st, 2019. $40 after November 1st, 2019 and at the doors Ages 18+ 

ARTIST: Ishmil Waterman’s art emphasizes the fractal nature of the human mind while exploring the vast mystery, history and imminence of melanated people.

EXHIBIT: Rapture is a visual concept exploring theology, the spiritual powers of manifestation and the scientific principles of 1. the divine feminine and; 2. the divine masculine. 30+ black women and men are represented in the series that combines contemporary art and technology. This program includes nudity and is 18+