Columbus, Ohio, has long held a vibrant connection to reggae music, a legacy now being celebrated through a new exhibition at The Pizzuti. Root System: Selections from Columbus Reggae Archives delves into the city’s deep-rooted history with the genre, beginning with a landmark 1978 concert by Bob Marley and The Wailers and extending through the decades to explore the venues, promoters, and dedicated fans who built a thriving local scene. The exhibition offers a appear back at a cultural movement that resonated with a generation and continues to inspire today.
Bob Marley’s arrival in Columbus in May 1978, during his Kaya tour, marked a pivotal moment. Performing at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Marley brought his message of “One Love” to a city, and a nation, still grappling with social and political upheaval. According to setlist.fm, the 1978 concert showcased songs from the Kaya album alongside classics like “Get Up, Stand Up” and “I Shot the Sheriff.” Marley had recently returned to Jamaica after a two-year exile, and his music served as a powerful call for unity, a message that resonated deeply with audiences across the United States.
From Skankland to a Cultural Hub
The impact of Marley’s visit helped lay the groundwork for a flourishing reggae scene in Columbus throughout the 1980s. A central figure in this development was Skankland, a bar and nightclub in the Milo-Grogan neighborhood. More than just a music venue, Skankland became a community gathering place, fostering connection across racial and generational lines. Founder Hugo Cabrera Jr. Described the club as a space “where you [could] approach have a drink, listen to some good music, and hold an intelligent conversation with someone” in an atmosphere reminiscent of Jamaica. Though Skankland closed in the late 1990s, its influence continues to be felt.
The spirit of Skankland lives on as a source of inspiration for artist Tavares Strachan’s permanent installation, Bar Room (2022/2025), at The Pizzuti. This connection highlights the enduring legacy of the club and its role in shaping Columbus’s cultural landscape. The exhibition demonstrates how a single venue can become a cornerstone of a community and a catalyst for artistic expression.
Exploring the Archives
Root System: Selections from Columbus Reggae Archives brings together a diverse collection of materials documenting the history of reggae in the city. The exhibition, curated by Daniel Marcus, Curator of Collections and Exhibitions, in collaboration with Rich Street Records (formerly Roots Records) and Tim St. Clair, features posters, photographs, artworks, memorabilia, and other ephemera from the late 1970s to the present. The exhibition aims to showcase the venues and individuals who have sustained the reggae scene in Columbus over the years.
The exhibition isn’t simply a static display; it’s designed to be a living, breathing experience. Each month, the installation will be activated by “LEVEL THE VIBES,” a series of events featuring reggae-focused DJ sets curated by Sammy Macchiato, alongside a pop-up sale of vinyl records and merchandise from Rich Street Records. This ongoing programming ensures that the energy and spirit of reggae continue to resonate within the exhibition space.
Upcoming Events
The first “LEVEL THE VIBES” event is scheduled for February 20, followed by events on March 20 and April 17, all taking place from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at The Pizzuti. These events offer a chance to experience the music firsthand and connect with the community that has kept the reggae flame alive in Columbus. More information about the February 20 event can be found here, March 20’s event is detailed here, and details for the April 17 event are available on the Columbus Museum of Art website.
Root System: Selections from Columbus Reggae Archives is more than just a retrospective; it’s a celebration of a vibrant cultural history and a testament to the enduring power of music to bring people together. The exhibition provides a valuable opportunity to explore the roots of reggae in Columbus and to appreciate the contributions of the artists, promoters, and fans who have shaped the city’s musical landscape.
The exhibition will continue through the spring, with the “LEVEL THE VIBES” events offering ongoing opportunities to engage with the music and community. Visitors can expect further announcements regarding additional programming and events related to the exhibition in the coming months.
What are your favorite memories of the Columbus reggae scene? Share your thoughts in the comments below and help us continue to celebrate this rich cultural heritage.
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