We’re excited to announce the inaugural Venice Soulstice on July 20 at the First Baptist Church of Venice—a cornerstone for the community of Oakwood, a historically Black and Brown neighborhood in the heart of Venice Beach.

Join us for a celebration of Black expression in the heart of Venice Beach, including music, dance, art, food, and story-telling. Experience live performances by Mofaya & Friends, Olokun Cultural Group, Wadada Khufu, and Just Satyan alongside stunning art and live painting by Gakwaya. Explore the cultural history and progress of Black communities on LA’s Westside with author and historian Alison Rose Jefferson. Enjoy savory Jamaican food from Ozi's Kitchen, artisanal ice cream by All Chill, and cold brew coffee and teas by Boketto.

Venice Soulstice is a not-for-profit organization that aims to create opportunity for independent artists by bridging communities through the power of expression. ALL PROCEEDS FROM THIS EVENT GO DIRECTLY TO THE ARTISTS, KNOWLEDGE PRODUCERS, AND CONTRIBUTORS, AND WILL FUND AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY-FOCUSED PROJECTS IN OAKWOOD. This is not a religious event, but we ask that all guests please respect the strict rule of NO alcohol, smoking, or drugs on the First Baptist Church property.

We’re a little behind in saying this, but THANK YOU to everyone who joined us at Venice Soulstice! We all shared something special together, and your presence supported the arts and community. Here are some moments of the day shot by @magebuse
VENICE SOULSTICE is tomorrow! Today is the last day to get $25 presale tickets ($35 tomorrow) and enter our giveaway to win a FREE 10x10 PRINT by @gakwaya_gisa We can’t wait to celebrate together 🌞 swipe through for a preview of @venicesou
VENICE SOULSTICE is tomorrow! Today is the last day to get $25 presale tickets ($35 tomorrow) and enter our giveaway to win a FREE 10x10 PRINT by @gakwaya_gisa We can’t wait to celebrate together 🌞 swipe through for a preview of @venicesou
Meet @alisonrosejefferson 📚 Alison Rose Jefferson is a publicly engaged independent historian, heritage conservation consultant, and a third generation Californian. Her research and work revolve around the intersection of historical memory, America
Meet Wadada Khufu 🎶 Originally from the suburbs of Washington DC, Wadada Khufu Watts came to Los Angeles in 1979 to fulfill his vision–to heal the world with music and love. Since then, he has earned his place as a true veteran of the Venice,
Meet @olokunculturalgroup 🪘 Olokun Cultural Group is a traditional west African drum and dance ensemble led by griot and master drummer Najite Agindotan. Najite founded the drum circle in Leimert Park, a cultural nucleus for the African diaspora in
Meet Mofaya 🔥 Originally from Kinshasa, Congo, @mermans_mosengo left his home more than 25 years ago in search of a better life. Upon his arrival to South Africa in 1998, Mermans joined the Young Bakuba Band as a drummer and bass player. Mermans th
Meet our DJ @just_satyan 🪩 Satyan’s vinyl selections are rare groove—some jazz, funk, boogie, disco, and everything in between. Anything that makes you move. We love the way Satyan feels the crowd and blends seamlessly from one sound to
Meet our food vendor @oziskitchen 🇯🇲🥘 Ozi Brown has spent over 20 years crafting Caribbean cuisine. As a young man in Jamaica, Ozi would travel the island and cook for the Rasta community during Nyabinghi celebrations. Through this experience, he
📍About our location @venicesoulstice will be at the outdoor lot of the First Baptist Church of Venice. This place holds great significance for the community of Oakwood, a historically Black neighborhood in the heart of Venice that has been the targ