ImageNation Cinema Foundation has been hosting film screenings, music performances, and other cultural events since 1997. They operate out of a space in Harlem that can be rented for events that has been called Raw Space.
They are going to further dedicate the space to film and music by changing it to the Sol Cinema Cafe. During the day, it will operate as a coffee shop and at night, the space will screen Black indie film. The conversion is slated to officially open in June. They are also adding Varcade to the mix, a virtual reality lounge.
Starting today, Sol Cinema Cafe is launching a seat naming campaign to raise funds for the renovation. Seats are going for $500 each and the naming rights will last 5 years. This campaign kicks off with a week long run of the film Rafiki from April 19th through 25th. This includes a 3pm screening on Sunday, April 21st with writer/director Wanuri Kahiu in attendance. This will be followed up with a screening of Little White Lie on April 26th, which will have director Lacey Schwartz in attendance.
Sol Cinema Cafe is located at 2031 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd in Harlem.
Background on the Founder
The Sol Cinema Cafe was established by Moikgantsi Kgama, founder of the ImageNation Cinema Foundation, in collaboration with her husband Gregory Gates. Moikgantsi was born to an African American mother and a South African father. Moikgantsi's heritage influenced her work, as exposure to people from all over the world inspired her to use cinema to highlight the global Black experience.