Atizay Afro Visual Art Gathering (AAVAG)

The annual Atizay Afro Visual Art Gathering (AAVAG) is a series of events dedicated to celebrating and highlighting Black visual artists on a global scale. Originally launched in 2019 as the I Encuentro Afrocostarricense de Artes Visuales (EAAV I), the event provided a platform for Black artists to showcase their talents and engage in discussions about representation and identity in the arts. The inaugural gathering, hosted at the Jade Museum in Costa Rica, was a landmark event, spotlighting the unique experiences and challenges faced by Black artists within Costa Rican society.

In 2020, the gathering (EAAV II) adapted to a virtual format due to the pandemic, expanding its reach to include a global audience with participants from multiple countries. This edition underscored the resilience of the Black diaspora, emphasizing the importance of community and creativity during unprecedented times.

In 2021, Atizay renamed the event to AAVAG to better align with its mission of globally promoting and celebrating Black visual artists. This annual gathering continues to foster connections among artists and audiences, creating a dynamic and supportive environment that champions artistic excellence and cultural dialogue worldwide.