WEST BALTIMORE GIRL:
BLACK IN EMPTY SPACES HALF FULL
IN CONJUNCTION WITH QUEENS GIRL: BLACK IN THE GREEN MOUNTAINS
EXHIBITED AT EVERYMAN THEATER OCT 20-NOV 17, 2024
1 CORINTHIANS 13:11 / GIFT OF IMAGINATION, -2022, 48x60 Acrylic on Canvas | $4,500
1 Corinthians 13:11 and/or Gift of Imagination" is a vibrant acrylic on canvas that invites viewers to explore the transformative power of imagination and personal growth. Drawing inspiration from the biblical passage that speaks to the evolution of thought and understanding, this piece captures the essence of maturity and the beauty of embracing change.The artwork features a dynamic interplay of colors—soft pastels intertwined with bold, contrasting hues—that evoke a sense of fluidity and movement.
The prominent geometric shapes, including a stark green square and a circular motif, represent the foundational elements of identity and experience. These forms serve as metaphors for the growth and development that occur as one transitions from childhood to adulthood.
This painting serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of nurturing one’s imagination while embracing the inevitable changes that life brings. Through this captivating work, the artist encourages reflection on the journey of self-discovery and the boundless possibilities that arise when we allow our creativity to flourish.
SHE'LL ALWAYS BE THERE / COMMON UNDERSTANDING- 2024, 24x30 Portrait | $450
This photograph, taken at Aunt Carolyn’s Cookout in Druid Hill Park, captures the joyful essence of a Black elder, his gold-toothed smile radiating warmth and nostalgia. His shirt, designed with the phrase “God Got Me,” reflects the spiritual wisdom often shared by elders in Baltimore during the early '90s—a sentiment deeply embedded in the artist's upbringing. The image serves as a visual meditation on the rapper Common’s iconic track "Faithful," where he provocatively imagines God as a woman. This reflection invites a deeper inquiry into the pivotal roles Black women play in our lives, particularly in the acts of gathering, nurturing, and sustaining the family. Through this work, the artist bridges cultural, spiritual, and generational ties, offering a powerful homage to the matriarchs, ancestors, and keepers of the family whose influence is ever-present.
MESSAGE / DELIVERER OF SHADOW WORK - 2023, 18x24 Portrait | $300
This photograph, captured during Carolyn’s Cookout at Druid Hill Park, holds deep familial and cultural resonance. It features a relative in her mail delivery uniform, partially veiled in shadow—a striking visual metaphor for the enduring role of Black women as messengers of resilience and faith. The image evokes a legacy of service, drawing a parallel between her work attire and the spiritual work Black women have undertaken for generations. This piece also serves as a thoughtful response to the prior image, "SHE’LL ALWAYS BE THERE AND/OR COMMON UNDERSTANDING," offering a subtle nod to the iconic film Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood. It explores themes of presence, duty, and cultural satire in a fresh, visually compelling way.
DUALITY IN BLACK AND WHITE / I GOT YA BACK, 2023, 10x10 Portrait | NFS
"Duality in Black and White / I Got Ya Back" is a compelling photograph that intricately examines the duality of gender through the poignant expressions of a young boy and girl. In this striking image, the boy's tears highlight the vulnerability often overshadowed by societal expectations of Black masculinity. His emotional display challenges the traditional narrative that discourages boys from expressing their feelings, offering a raw and honest glimpse into the complexities of his inner world. Contrasting with the boy’s tears is the bold design on his shirt, which juxtaposes elements of strength and resilience with the reality of his emotional experience. This visual tension serves to question the rigid expectations placed on Black men in America, suggesting that strength can coexist with vulnerability. Meanwhile, the girl stands confidently beside him, her demeanor reflecting a sense of empowerment and self-assuredness that complements the boy’s emotional openness. "Duality in Black and White" serves as a powerful commentary on the importance of embracing the full spectrum of human emotion, urging a reevaluation of traditional gender roles and promoting a dialogue about the necessity of emotional expression in both genders.
PERSPECTIVE AS FUEL FOR GROWTH / LITTLE EYES ARE WATCHING, 2023, 10x10 Portrait | $200
"Perspective as Fuel for Growth / Little Eyes Are Watching" is a deeply evocative fine art photograph that captures the essence of perspective through the tender gaze of a young child. The close-up composition emphasizes the child's expressive features, drawing viewers into a moment of contemplation and vulnerability. With large, reflective eyes, the child’s expression conveys a profound sense of awareness, as if absorbing the world around them. This image serves as a powerful reminder that children are not merely passive observers; they are actively engaged in interpreting their environments. The subtle nuances of their expressions reflect the richness of their experiences, highlighting the importance of perspective in shaping their understanding of the world. Set against a soft, blurred background, the child’s face takes center stage, symbolizing the purity and intensity of youthful curiosity. "Point of View / Little Eyes Are Watching" invites viewers to consider how the perspectives of the young can fuel growth and development, both personally and within the community. This photograph challenges us to recognize the significance of nurturing and supporting the viewpoints of children, as their insights can lead to greater empathy, understanding, and ultimately, a more compassionate society.
PROTECTION / IM JUST A GIRL , 2023, 10x10 Portrait | $200
"Protection / I'm Just a Girl" encapsulates the profound role of Black men as protectors and community leaders through a powerful visual narrative. In this striking image, a young girl stands confidently at the forefront, surrounded by a group of men whose presence conveys strength, guardianship, and responsibility. This composition not only emphasizes the importance of protective figures in a child's life but also reflects the broader commitment of Black men to uplift and safeguard their communities. The juxtaposition of the child’s innocence with the steadfast demeanor of the men illustrates a protective embrace that transcends mere physical safety. Each man represents a pillar of support, embodying the ideals of mentorship and guidance essential for nurturing the next generation. Their collective stance speaks to the notion that true leadership involves fostering a safe and empowering environment where children can flourish, free from fear and uncertainty.
BEYOND THE BUBBLE / INNER VISIONS OF THE MIND - 2023, 10x10 Portrait | $200
In this evocative black-and-white photograph, a young girl captures the viewer’s attention with her focused, thoughtful expression. Holding a bubble wand delicately to her lips, she prepares to blow her next bubble, yet her gaze drifts beyond the frame, suggesting a world of contemplation and curiosity. Her t-shirt reads "BE THE SUN," a striking statement that resonates deeply with her radiant melanin. The phrase “BE THE SUN” takes on new meaning as it contrasts with the rich tones of her skin, symbolizing how Blackness embodies both warmth and brilliance. The background fades into soft shadows, subtly highlighting the child’s presence as the central focus. This image captures a moment of stillness and introspection, inviting viewers to reflect on the innocence of youth and the quiet strength it embodies. It’s a tender portrayal of a child’s inner world—both playful and profound—captured in a single, intimate moment.
VAL'S COLLECTION OF SEEDS / RAISED TO RISE
"Collection of Seeds" is a visual exploration of the powerful influence single Black mothers have in nurturing their sons to become compassionate men and dedicated fathers. Through a series of striking monochrome images, this collection captures moments of love, nourishment, and guidance, artfully juxtaposing the nurturing essence of motherhood with the symbolism of watermelon—a fruit that nourishes both body and spirit. The photographs draw parallels between the act of cultivating a fruitful life and the responsibilities of fatherhood. This collection serves as a testament to the profound legacy that single Black mothers impart, shaping their sons into embodiments of compassion, strength, and responsibility as they prepare to embrace their future roles as fathers.
Upper left corner: UNDERSTANDING, 5x7 Portrait | $150
Upper right corner: WE REAP WHAT WE SOW, 5x7 Portrait | $150
Lower left corner: FREEDOM TO SMILE, 5x7 Portrait | $150
Lower right corner: HOW WE CARRY OURSELVES IS HOW WE SHALL BE CARRIED, 5x7 Portrait | $150
DEPTH OF SELF / INTROVERSION OF TRUTH - 2017, 48x60 Acrylic on Canvas | $4,500
Through this artwork, the artist delves into the themes of introversion and introspection, emphasizing how personal identity can be shaped and sometimes obscured by the world around us. The layered brushstrokes evoke a sense of depth, suggesting that the path to understanding oneself is often met with challenges yet ultimately beautifully rewarding.
"Depth of Self/Introversion of Truth" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing one’s identity in a world that often seeks to define it. This piece encourages viewers to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery, inviting a dialogue about the complexities of being both seen and understood. Through this exploration, the artwork highlights the beauty of authenticity and the strength found in embracing one’s truth.
IN THE BLUE / BLUE TO THE BONE - 2024, FILM [2:19] , North Avenue, West Baltimore
“In The Blue,” directed by Cheyanne Zadia, brings light to creatives born and raised in Baltimore, beyond the art districts and under the blue lights. In this short visual we see Ajee, a local creative casually devouring a chicken box with salt, pepper and ketchup, a Baltimore staple for everyday residents. Her comfort level in contrast to her outfit speaks to how even in the comfort of our own neighborhoods and communities creatives seem to stand out amongst the crowd as the artist's use of blue light is reflective of surveillance, being observed and perceived for who we are and who we are not. This piece is furthermore, a salute to creatives born and raised in Baltimore, the pillars of foundation who have molded and shaped this city into the art hub we know and love today.
Collection of posters/prints created exclusively for the Everyman Theatre Release | $60
Upper left corner: BALTIMORE, 2024
Upper right corner: IF LIFE IS A STAGE, 2024
Lower left corner: DIFFERENT WORLDS, 2024
Lower right corner: BLACK AND BLUES, 2024
STAY DANGEROUS AND/OR THERE'S NO TELLING WHAT'S INSIDE OF YOU - 2024, 12x12 Acrylic on Canvas | $250
In the heart of Baltimore, the red diamonds adorning vacant houses serve as symbols of warning—a call to caution for first responders navigating structures fraught with uncertainty. This diamond-shaped painting captures the essence of these markers, transforming a mere sign of danger into a profound exploration of inner resilience and potential.
The rich reds echo the urgency of the warnings while juxtaposing the vulnerability of the structures they signify. As we dissect the concept of danger, we are reminded that the most precarious foundations often hide untold stories of strength and survival.
In this work, the red diamonds symbolize not just caution, but the necessary tools for personal growth—mental and spiritual fortitude. It implores us to reflect on our outer shells, urging that they mirror the depth and richness of what lies within. May we harness our potential, allowing it to flourish beyond mere appearances.
HOW WE SURVIVE / HE MAKETH ME TO LIE DOWN IN GREEN PASTURES - 2022, 48x48 Acrylic on Canvas | $2,500
This painting features a calming green square that symbolizes the essence of survival in Baltimore. Within this larger square, a smaller green square seamlessly blends into the background, reflecting the necessity of adaptability and the ability to navigate one’s environment. The piece speaks to the realities of life in West Baltimore, where blending in can be crucial for safety and resilience.
The title, derived from bible verse Psalms 23, evokes a sense of divine protection and peace. It reinforces the foundational belief that, even amid challenges, one can find solace and assurance. Through its minimalist yet profound composition, the artwork invites viewers to contemplate their own experiences of survival and the quiet strength that comes from faith and foundation.
WHERE THERE IS BLACK, THERE IS BLUE / VACANT SYSTEMS FROM A BUTTERFLYS VIEW - 2024, 48x72 Acrylic on Canvas | $6,000
"Where There Is Black, There Is Blue and/or Vacant Systems from a Butterfly's View" is a powerful acrylic on canvas that critically examines the socio-economic landscape of Baltimore through a multi-layered artistic lens. This dynamic piece reflects the city’s complex history of vacant housing, contrasting the struggles of West Baltimore with the revitalization efforts seen in East Baltimore. The title draws inspiration from Dr. Lawrence Brown’s coined term “the Black Butterfly” where he explored themes of identity, resilience and the complexities of African American experiences.
The composition employs a vibrant color palette that echoes the hues found in Baltimore’s V2V (Vacant to Value) property search map key. Rich blacks signify the pervasive neglect and disinvestment that characterize many areas, while brighter colors represent pockets of revitalization and hope. These visual contrasts not only highlight the disparities within the city but also serve as a commentary on the systemic inequities that have led to high crime rates and the implementation of surveillance systems in predominantly Black neighborhoods.
The painting invites viewers to consider the implications of surveillance as both a means of safety and a reminder of the socio-political dynamics at play in communities grappling with the weight of their histories.
"Where There Is Black, There Is Blue and/or Vacant Systems from a Butterfly's View" is not merely a visual exploration; it is a call to action, urging viewers to engage with the complexities of urban life and to recognize the potential for renewal and transformation.
Cheyanne Zadia (b.1991) Baltimore, Md
FOREVER IN PROGRESS / UNDER CONSTRUCTION, 2024, 60x36 Acrylic on Canvas | $1,500
The industrial color pallet and shapes of this work of art reminds the view that life is forever under construction. We learn, grow, and adjust by the minute; slowly evolving into greater versions of ourselves