Imani Perry: Black and Blues

Imani Perry: Black and Blues

National Book Award-winner Imani Perry visits TPL to share her new book that tells the story of Blackness through the colour Blue.

By Toronto Public Library

Date and time

Tuesday, May 20 · 7 - 8pm EDT

Location

Bram & Bluma Appel Salon

Toronto Reference Library 789 Yonge Street Toronto, ON M4W 2G8 Canada

Agenda

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Pre-Show: Black in Blue Watercolouring


Doors for this pre-show will open at 5:30 PM and will require a pre-show + main event ticket. Join us for a special watercolour painting workshop. Featuring pages of images inspired by "Black in Blue...

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Main Event: Imani Perry discusses Black in Blues


Imani Perry is interviewed about her new book Black in Blues, with time for Q&A from the audience.

8:00 PM

Book Signing


Imani Perry signs copies of her books. Books are available for purchase at the event from a local bookseller.

About this event

  • Event lasts 1 hour

Award winning author Imani Perry to discuss her new book Black in Blues: How a Color Tells the Story of My People at the Toronto Reference Library’s Appel Salon.

In Black in Blues, Perry reveals how a single colour weaves through the tapestry of Black history; From the rich indigo-stained fabrics of West Africa, to the vast azure skies and seas that whispered freedom during the Middle Passage, to the birth of the Blues - a genre born from both struggle and joy that became the soul-stirring voice of a people. In this profound meditation, Perry masterfully bridges the paradox of Blue, the world's most beloved colour, with the profound depths of Black history and culture, illuminating their unexpectedly intimate and powerful connection across time.

Suggested Dress Code: Wear something Blue.

Question and answer session and book signing to follow. Books available for purchase.

About this event’s guests:

Imani Perry

Read more:

Black in Blues: How a Color Tells the Story of My People

South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation

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Please note: this event is preceded with a special watercolouring workshop starting at 6pm (doors 5:30 PM). Access to this pre-show requires a "Pre-Show + Main Event" ticket. Limited space available, first-come first-serve.

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This event is part of our signature Salon Series, where we host local and international authors, artists and thinkers in conversation about their new books and big ideas.

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This event is also part of TPL's Black History and Culture Series.

Presenting Sponsor of Heritage Programs: TD Bank Group, through the TD Ready Commitment.

PLAN YOUR VISIT:

Location: Bram and Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street), 2nd floor

Time: Doors open 6:00pm, Event starts 7:00pm.

Tickets: Free registration required.

Ticket policy: Tickets guaranteed until 6:50pm, after which rush line admission begins. Seating first come, first served.

Bar: Beer/wine available for purchase (debit/credit only).

Accessibility: TPL is committed to accessibility. If you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation for this event, please contact accessibleservices@tpl.ca or 416-393-7099 at least three weeks prior to the event.


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Free