On Purpose: Newark Arts Festival Opening Night

Paul Robeson Galleries | Express Newark

Apanamae Productions joined artists, curators, arts advocates, and members of thecommunity for the opening of the 2026 Newark Arts Festival at Express Newark. The evening marked the beginning of a weeklong celebration of Newark’s vibrant creative community and its contributions to the visual and performing arts.

The opening provided an opportunity for Ricardo Osmondo Francis to reconnect with fellow artists, longtime friends, cultural leaders, and supporters while experiencing the work of an extraordinary group of participating artists.

Among the featured works was Francis’s painting:

“May 2024 / Rep. Jasmine Crockett Addresses Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene During House Oversight Committee Meeting (B6).”

Francis also attended wearing the Apanamae Productions T-shirt design, “Roma / Figure,” available through the organization's online store, Store 2.

A special acknowledgment goes to Bisa Butler, acclaimed artist and curator, for bringing her artistic vision to the 2026 Newark Arts Festival. Apanamae Productions also recognizes Adrienne Wheeler and Cheyenne Allegra Ceasar, curators of the On Purpose exhibition at Express Newark, for their work in showcasing the creativity and artistic contributions of Newark’s arts community.

The Newark Arts Festival continues to provide an important platform for artists, cultural organizations, and audiences to engage with the creative energy that makes Newark a significant center for artistic expression.

Event Information

Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2026

Exhibition: On Purpose

Venue: Paul Robeson Galleries, Express Newark

Festival: 25th Annual Newark Arts Festival

For additional information and the complete festival schedule, visit Newark Arts