Newark's First Family of the Arts, 3-The-Art-Way Conquering Paris

(Newark, New Jersey) As the world converges in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, a unique spotlight will shine on a trio of artists from Newark, New Jersey. 3-The-Art-Way, comprising a mother, Yvonne Onque and her sons Samad and Suliman Onque, will showcase their dynamic art at Africa Station, a vibrant fan zone dedicated to African culture and sport. This extraordinary opportunity marks another milestone in the journey of Newark’s “first family of the arts”, as they bring their powerful messages and rich artistic heritage to an international stage.

A Legacy Rooted in Newark

Yvonne Onque and her sons are deeply connected to Newark, a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene. Yvonne, a graduate of Arts High School, follows in the footsteps of her brother, the late Bryon Onque, a distinguished musician who performed under Leonard Bernstein's direction for Pope Paul VI in Rome in 1984. Samad and Suliman, also Arts High School alumni, have been drawing and creating from an early age, earning numerous accolades and scholarships for their work.

The trio’s art reflects the African American experience, embedding hidden messages within each piece. Their recent projects, including a massive 20,000 square foot Black Lives Matter mural in East Orange, NJ, demonstrated their commitment to social justice and community engagement. Their work is not just art; it is a powerful commentary on societal issues and a catalyst for change.

From Newark to the World: The Paris 2024 Olympics

The Paris 2024 Olympics will see the Île-Saint-Denis transformed into Africa Station, a celebration ground for African culture, supported by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA). This fan zone will host a variety of events, from athlete medal presentations to concerts, and will serve as a bridge between communities, celebrating diversity and unity.

For 3-The-Art-Way, this platform offers an opportunity to share their vision with a global audience. Their participation in Africa Station aligns perfectly with their mission to inspire peace and transform trauma through art. Their recent exhibition at the Newark Arts Festival, titled h.e.A.R.T. felt (Healing x Expressions x Artistically x Removing x Trauma), aimed to stimulate dialogue about trauma and violence, showing art’s potential as a healing force. This ethos will resonate deeply within the vibrant, multicultural setting of Africa Station.

Art as a Catalyst for Change

Yvonne, Samad, and Suliman’s participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics is more than a personal achievement; it’s a testament to the power of community and the transformative potential of art. Art is a universal language that speaks to the heart of humanity," Yvonne states. "Our family's journey is woven into each piece, reflecting the resilience, love, and spirit of our ancestors. This exhibit is not just our story, but a testament to the enduring strength of the African-American community.

Their artwork, which encompasses gallery pieces, comic book illustrations, and wearable art, consistently tackles themes of social justice, empowerment, and cultural pride. By engaging in these creative endeavors, 3-The-Art-Way seeks to promote social change and amplify marginalized voices, particularly those from historically excluded communities.

A Celebration of Black Heritage

Africa Station at the Paris 2024 Olympics promises to be a dynamic meeting place for sports enthusiasts and lovers of African traditions. Visitors can expect to encounter a rich tapestry of African heritage through sporting and cultural events, including exhibitions, concerts, and various activities that highlight the continent's vibrancy.

For 3-The-Art-Way, this is an opportunity to further their mission of creating, connecting, and expanding their work worldwide. “Through our art, we aim to highlight the beauty and depth of Black culture while also confronting the challenges we face," Samad Onque asserts. "Our work is a celebration of our heritage and a call to action for social justice, reminding the world of the strength and resilience of the Black community.

Looking Ahead

As 3-The-Art-Way prepares to conquer Paris, their journey from Newark to the international stage serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of art to bridge divides and foster understanding. Their unique blend of creativity, activism, and community engagement will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all who experience their work at Africa Station.

In the words of Suliman Onque, "We believe that art has the power to ignite change and inspire generations," says Suliman. "As we bring our work to the global stage, we hope to shine a light on the rich cultural heritage of Newark and pave the way for future artists to share their voices and stories with the world.