Gallery B612 09. African American Art Celebration

Gallery B612

2024

Cover Art: Charde' Brown

Issue 09

Gallery B612's Story Initially founded in mid 2020 under Prince and Fox, LLC, Gallery B612 aspires to be a gathering place for artists, dancers, fashion designers and creatives from all walks of life. To this date, the gallery has featured a Solo Exhibition from founder and curator, MiYoung Margolis and served as a gathering place and rehearsal space for MMDC and Dare to Dance.

Gallery B612 is a literary reference to Asteroid B612 in Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's book titled, The Little Prince. Gallery B612 is our "art planet," our gallery and studio, in the Seattle SODO neighborhood.

We believe it's important to provide space for artist to share their voice in a physical representation where others can view and discuss the pieces as well as mingle with others in our community. In our modern American world, there are less and less public spaces for people to spend their free time. Here, we will hope to provide safety and connection for the Seattle community.

At Gallery B612, you can find original works of MiYoung Margolis, as well as juried exhibitions of work by local and international artists.

Gallery Founder Co-Founder & Curator Assistant Curator

Jeffrey Margolis MiYoung Margolis Kelly Cook

Artists 1

Andy Ayivor

2

Charde' Brown

3

Gretchen Hansen

4

Juan Hood

5

Crystal Johnson

6

Michele Knox

7

Viktoriya Leyfman-Frenkel

8

Adala Makhulo

9

Tali Rachelle

10

Teresa Rancourt

11

Autumn Tranquilino

12

Randall Vemer

13

Tim Wulf

Performing Artists 14

Fashion Show | Tony Vincente

15

Music | Ronnue

African American Art Exhibition February 29th - April 6th, 2024 On the evening of February 29th, 2024 Gallery B612 held the Artist Reception celebrating the works of 13 artists totaling 35 art pieces and a featuring a fashion show.

Vendor booth by TyResha Jones-Smith.

The artists were able to attend the reception and connect with the fellow art community of local artists, art collectors, and friends alike while simultaneously showing the selected works of the African American Art Exhibition.

The works seen in here in Issue 09 are available at Gallery B612. If you would like to get in touch with any of the art pieces seen here, please contact the Gallery B612 Team.

1915 1st Ave S Seattle, WA 98134 Email: info@galleryb612.com Phone: (206) 476 - 7385 www.GalleryB612.com

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Andy Ayivor

Andy Ayivor is a contemporary conceptualist painter who lives and works in Seattle, Washington. He states, “My art is a media where imperfect shapes and lines interact to unlock the viewers imagination and the ability to translate visual illustration into untold stories”. Growing up in Ghana, West Africa, Andy showed hints of intrinsic artistic skill in both drawing and painting. Despite the fact that his entire academic journey was focused on science, his artistic interest and knowledge outweighed all his other passions, such as music and photography. Andy compares painting to a tenacious plant that can thrive anywhere, even on concrete floors. He describes art as the finest way for him to express himself, and like a plant growing through a concrete floor, his art has flourished regardless surrounding conditions.

Behind those Glass, 2023 24” x 18” x 1.5” oil paint on canvas

An oil painting of a selfie picture of a model in glasses, depicting social media and what we see on our screens but not necessarily the depiction of everyday life. The artist drew inspiration from a friend’s picture.

My goals(gloves) are bigger than me, 2022 16” x 20” Acrylic on canvas

A boy wearing over-sized gloves being challenging goals and aspirations.

Artist Statement I am deeply honored to be a part of this exhibition, and I look forward to sharing my artistic expression with the community during Black History Month. Together, we can celebrate the past, present, and future of African American heritage and continue the journey toward a more inclusive and equitable world.

2

Charde' Brown

Charde' Brown is an emerging self-taught artist who works primarily with acrylic paint, mixed media and soft pastels to explore inhibitions and explore the depths of emotions, ideations and reflections of the past. Through expressive and tasteful nudity, she creatively brings to life her internal struggles within mental health in a tangible way.

Her work serves as both a powerful medium of expression and a deeply personal form of therapy. Through her art, she fearlessly delves into the depths of her experiences as a black woman, allowing her creations to constantly evolve and flourish. Brown's art acts as a refuge from the weight of societal pressures and is destined to strike a chord with numerous observers. Her unyielding mission is to carve out a sanctuary for those who grapple with feeling unseen and misrepresented, providing solace and restoration. Her art endeavors to shed light on mental well-being, coaxing spectators to venture beyond the confines of what meets the eye.

Glittering Gems of Africa, 2024 24" x 36" oil pastels and soft pastels My piece is a dedication to black youth and showcases the vibrant colors of the African culture. The vibrant colors serve as a representation of the vibrant and innovative minds of the black youth and the new trendsetters of this generation.

3

Gretchen V. Hansen

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Gretchen accustomed to walking in the rain through the woods, and playing on her grandparents' farm. On frequent visits to Bainbridge, Vashon and Whidbey Island, she collected not only seaweed and shells, but childhood memories.

She continues to look at the world through the lens of picture books, legends and fairytales.

To Gretchen, the wedding of images, text, poetry, and song seems not only natural, but essential.

Artist Statement Drawing in the light of day and painting with the heart of a child, I gather my impressions.

My images are my attempts to distill the wonder of childhood, to touch lightly upon its essence, in the ephemeral moments before they fade, revealing the inner spirit of the child at play

Thumbelina Meets A Kindly Field Mouse, 2019 15"h x 15"w acrylic gouache and paper on canvas Tiny Thumbelina has wandered throughout the summer, autumn leaves have fallen and now the first snowflakes are falling! She must find shelter!

Toddler, Absorbed in Sand, 2020 15.5" h x 13" w Derwent pencil sketch A toddler is engrossed in the texture of sand while filling and spilling a scoop.

Girl Meets Cosmos, 2020 17'h x 13"w Derwent pencil sketch A young girl contemplates the wonder of the pink petals of the Cosmos flowers.

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Juan Hood Juan Hood self taught artist and graduate of The Art Institute of Seattle. Growing up in Seattle with his siblings, my first influence was his mother. Drawing and painting animals and people. followed by painters Ernie Barns, Frank Frazzetta, Louis Royo and Leonardo da Vinci. He is constantly striving for that level of artistry. He prefers to dabble and experiment where he can with water colors, gouache and various indie inks, and whatever else that he can make handy. A Pencil and the three basic principles of shading are his foundation.

"Hey Ma!", 2020

11" x 14" framed Copic marker pen, Gel pen, Watercolor Just two bro's passing through town, posing for their pic to send to their Mothers.

Momma's Spear, 2022

Corner Store Hangout, 2020

17" x 22" India Ink and Copic marker pen on canvas

17"x24" framed Copic marker pens

The spear of the family must pass from one generation to the next. With love, pride and with dignity. Safely guiding them into the future.

After school pit stop at the neighborhood cornerstore. No real hurry, just passing time with friends, waiting on their bus.

Artist Statement There is a nervous joy that comes over me when seeing the reaction that my art causes in a person. Watching as each one interprets the image their looking at in their own way.

Childhood memories. Daydreams. Moments of joy, pain and sorrow. But most of all, family.

I put pencil and brush to whatever canvas works to tell snippets of my story.

Crystal Johnson

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Crystal Johnson is rising artist from Little Rock, Arkansas. Her love for the arts began when she attended Parkview Arts Magnet High School. Faced with numerous serious health issues since elementary school, she needed something constructive to occupy her time.

Crystal’s illnesses often kept her out of school for extended periods of time, and health issues prevented her from working or attending college. She began singing and teaching herself how to play the piano by ear and has composed over 200 songs. One day in August 2018, she woke up inspired to paint. She was encouraged to use art as therapy to help her cope with being ill nearly every day and has not stopped painting since.

Soul Searcher, 2022

Courageous, 2022

16”x12”x.75”, 0.9 lbs

24” x 18” x 0.75”, 1.9 lbs

My life is out of sync. I am out of touch with myself.

What’s missing? What do I need to do to get my life in alignment with my true self?

What’s my purpose here on Earth?

I face fear without flinching. If I’m afraid, you’ll never know it.

I courageously stand by my beliefs. I persevere through all challenges.

Blissful, 2022 24”x24”x.75”, 1.1 lbs Acrylic A Zen-like peace flows through every fiber of my being. Can’t you see, I am totally happy and content? How can anyone lay eyes upon me and not feel, and share the peace I emit.

Mesmerizing, 2023

“Afro”can Queen, 2022

Audacious, 2022

12” x 12” x 0.24” Acrylic and Mixed Media

24”x12”x.75”, 0.9 lbs Acrylic

24”x24”x1/4", 2.5lbs Acrylic/Mixed Media

Why is your gaze so intense? Is it difficult to look away? Are you captivated by my mesmerizing beauty? I dare not reveal the entirety of my face.

"I embrace, and am at peace with my African heritage. The baobab “tree of life” I hold in my hand is a symbol of resilience. It represents everything I have survived. My hair’s shape shows my pride in my country.

Cookie cutter is not a word that should ever be used to describe me. I make no apologies for my bold originality. How else will I know all I am capable of without taking brave risks? Big risks, big returns.

Artist Statement I have branched out and began using mixed media in most of my art pieces. I am most known for my unique use of 3D art, using natural hair, jewelry, and fabric in most of my pieces. I also love to use vibrant colors to draw in viewers’ eyes. My choice of medium is acrylic because I find it to go on more smoothly. My inspiration comes from God-given visions that I often receive in my dreams. I craft each piece to be unique, having its own personality. I love challenging my creativity to make my next piece more unique than my last.

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Michele Knox

Michele Knox is a multifaceted woman. In the realm of unexpected transformations, imagine a healthcare professional who, within the span of a year seamlessly transitioned into the vibrant world of abstract art. Amid the clinical confines, a dormant passion for self-expression awakened, prompting a leap into uncharted artistic territory.

Unspoken 30” x 40” x 1” Acrylic and pastel oils Picture a profound statement on your canvas—a black face emerging from the intricate tapestry of the African land. Use bold lines to signify the strength rooted in ancestral heritage, blending earthy tones to weave a connection with the rich soil. Let the abstract contours embody resilience, telling a silent story of identity, history, and the enduring spirit of the African people.

Black Mona Lisa

Good old chum!

8" x 10" x 1" 1940 photographic print canvas

8" x 10" x 1" 1930 photograph canvas

A moment in time of the struggles in the 1940’s capture in this expression

This image conveys of someone who is prepared, enthusiastic, and eager to tackle challenges. This person is characterized by a proactive and energetic approach, always poised to take on whatever comes their way but is always charming and has an easy way about him.

Artist Statement As an American black abstract artist, I craft visual narratives that transcend conventional boundaries. My work delves into the essence of identity, intertwining the complexities of heritage and personal experience. Through dynamic brushstrokes and vibrant palettes, I strive to evoke emotions and provoke contemplation. Drawing inspiration from the struggles and triumphs of the black American journey, my art serves as a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of a community navigating through diverse narratives.

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Viktoriya Leyfman-Frenkel

Viktoriya’s art has always been a tool for self mediation, self expression and therapeutic exercises. As she became a mom, she started teaching herself Expressionist Art classes and studying Digital Media Arts. She believes art has a meditating effect through color and its waves of vibrancy. Her art speaks through fruitful expression of color palate and emotional outlets.

African Folklore Dance 36” x 48” x 2”, 4 lbs Acrylic on stretched canvas

Dance and music have always helped to embrace hardships and find ways to overcome the most difficult situations.

8

Adala Makhulo

Born and raised in Kenya, Adala is an accomplished artist whose journey in the world of art began with a deep-rooted passion for creativity. After completing a Bachelor's degree in Radio/TV/Film from Northwestern University, Adala found a passion for Film Photography and began experimenting with different types of film. Her distinctive style, characterized by exploring the beauty of the black experience in seemingly mundane everyday moments has garnered attention for its unique exploration of the intersection between nature and human experience. Adala continues to captivate audiences with her thought-provoking and visually compelling creations.

Proof of Life, 2023 11 x 14 Photograph

This cinematic snapshot captures a moment of quiet connection, showcasing the tender dynamics of a couple in love. The juxtaposition of their two activities reveals a tender moment, where the couple shares a space yet engages in individual pursuits. The image radiates a palpable sense of love and companionship, beautifully encapsulating the nuanced dynamics of a relationship through the lens of everyday intimacy.

Reese's Barber Shop, 2023

Cobblers in Port Victoria, 2023

11” x 14” Film Photograph

11” x 14” Film Photograph

In this black and white image, a black man sits confidently in a barber chair, engaged in a meaningful conversation with the skilled barber. The ambiance of the barber shop, depicted in timeless monochrome, exudes a sense of community and camaraderie. Barber shops hold a special significance for black men, serving as more than just a place for grooming; they are vital sources of connection and safe spaces. The photograph captures the essence of this shared experience, where relationships are cultivated, stories are exchanged, and the barber shop becomes a sanctuary of community and cultural connection.

This black and white photograph of cobblers in Port Victoria, Kenya, depicts a snapshot of men surrounded by tools and worn leather. The image captures the timeless artistry of these skilled artisans as they meticulously work on repairing and crafting shoes. The monochrome palette adds a nostalgic and authentic touch, highlighting the dedication and expertise of the cobblers. Against the backdrop of Port Victoria, the photograph not only showcases the craftsmanship but also offers a glimpse into the daily life and trades that contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of this community in Kenya.

Artist Statement In my artistic practice, I delve into the beauty inherent in everyday seemingly mundane moments, with a particular focus on portraying the black experience. Whether that be going to be barber shop or walking home from a long day, I aim to capture it all. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of daily life, my work seeks to elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, capturing the essence of fleeting moments with a keen eye for the beauty found in the details. I aim to transform the commonplace into a visual celebration, inviting viewers to witness the inherent grace and resilience within black communities. Through this exploration, my art serves as a poignant reflection on the profound beauty that exists within the simplicity of daily life, challenging preconceptions and fostering a deeper appreciation for the diverse narratives woven into the fabric of our existence.

9

Tali Rachelle

Tali Rachelle is a self-taught artist and illustrator currently based in Austin, Texas. Tali studied Technical Design at university where she delved even deeper into drawing and graphic design. She is currently sharing and showcasing her art online and in exhibitions.

Artist Statement "Your work speaks much louder than you do." I heard this line OFTEN during my college years as a Technical Design undergraduate. I'm simply a quiet creator. While working on designs, I prefer to be alone with my headsets on. I don't really have a signature style, and I'm always practicing different techniques. This results in a manifestation of a series of graphic artworks. What I create is authentically me. I create the art I want to see in the world.

Pick Series: Ver. 1, 2, and 3, 2024 14” x 11” (16” x 20” frame) Digital Art

This piece is hand-embellished with a shimmering paint on the gold tooth and a small amount of shimmer on the crushed paper. Version 1 is inspired in light of recent events: the cancellation of DEI programs at institutions and companies, the whitewashing of U.S. History, and the banning of books by authors of certain demographics. This design symbolizes the defiance of the powers-that-be that are passing laws to reverse decades of progress made by marginalized communities under the guise of some new, hoodwinked, cherry-picked version of "Christianity". Version 2 is an ode to the black female warriors throughout human history who fought against injustices and risked everything for freedom and equality. They paved the way for later generations of not only black women, but the black community as a whole, to be able to advance and succeed with fewer obstacles in their paths. Version 3 symbolizes the beauty and strength that resides within the black community. Throughout centuries of trials and tribulations, discrimination, and setbacks, we continue to bloom and thrive.

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Teresa Rancourt

Teresa has painted off and on for about 30 years. She did both undergraduate art studies at the University of Washington and took many courses at Pratt Institute, Seattle. In 2020, she decided it was my time to make her longtime dream to become a full-time artist real. In 2023, she got my first solo show, got published in a local newspaper, received two awards for excellence in art competing with 600 other artists nationwide, participated in her first Pend Oreille Art Council (POAC) Downtown Artwalk, showed at POAC gallery twice and has created a large body of work.

Signs of In Equality and Aggregation, 2021 14” x 11 “ x 1” matted and framed, 1lb.

Collage This piece is made up of found papers, writings hand woven into chicken wire, a book cover, mylar text copy and mathematical text detailing Inequality and Aggregation. Teresa wants to press the viewer to become curious move into the piece and answer the question of how this plays out in their own life.

What Do You See, 2021

Goodbye Doubt, 2021

14” x 11” x 1” matted and framed.

Collage with paint and stabilo pencil and pen

14” x 11” x 1” matted and framed 1lb Collage

This collage was done as during the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter marches. Teresa lives in a red open carry state and one of the marches she participated included white men standing of the street corners with AR-15s. She hopes this collage represents how important it is to look in the right direction of what this movement really means.

This piece is about strength and hope and that positive energy from around the world. It is a piece about our human connectedness.

Artist Statement While I am primarily a painter, I work in many mediums to express myself visually, often incorporating the benefits of several in a single piece. Collage is a long-time love of mine and is a “go to” medium to explore and express my feelings, tell a story, and create a piece that my inner voice wants and needs to express. Pieces are laid down, discarded, ripped off, covered up or saved and then the start of the piece’s statement begins. Something starts to happen where I begin a “dance” with the story or what I am trying to visually say and my feelings and the shapes and images lead the way. I typically work in series with each piece in the series influencing the other. I find great joy in the completion of a work that encourages the viewer to enter their own world of wonder and appreciation and to witness the light in their eyes when this does happen.

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Autumn Tranquilino

Autumn is a Seattle based visual artist. Her work is inspired by mythology, indigenous, nature, and multiculturalism reflecting the human spirit, the earth and divine spark within.

She works mostly 2D with acrylics and inks.

Artist Statement My work is a contrast of light and dark, coolness and warmth. Painting has been the most authentic and effective experience I have had that brings me closer to divine source. I take each painting I create as one step closer to some kind of truth. I am so filled with gratitude and joy to catch the reflections of life through pushing a paintbrush.

Nina Simone, 2024 20” x 16” x 2”, 2 lbs acrylic on gallery canvas This painting reflects the great and talented Nina Simone who was a complex and talented musician.

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Randall Vemer

Randall Vemer has been a professional violinist/violist for 20 years; playing in orchestras around the world. He was Principal Viola of The Oregon Symphony for 20 years playing with the greatest soloists of our time. He transitioned from Classical Music to Classical Painting; culminating in the multimedia project MusArt exhibited in Portland, Seattle, Napa, and Aspen. It is an exhibition of 40 oil paintings of musicians around the world combining live music, Haiku poetry, film with original music by Grammy winning composer, and a published book. The Art film has won documentary film festival awards in London, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg, Tokyo, Berlin, New York, and Los Angeles among others.

Jazz Blues, 2021 30” x 30” x 1.5”, 5 lbs oil on canvas Elijah McClain was walking home from the convenience store carrying a bottle of iced tea last August when three police officers tackled him to the ground. The 23-year-old massage therapist from Aurora, Colorado described as "nothing but positive" by his cousin, "sweet” by his sister, and "an introvert who sought peace in his life" by his mother—was put in a stranglehold by the cops and injected with ketamine. He died six days later. He was a passionate violinist; upon his death violin vigils were held in the streets throughout the USA. This painting also includes a bassist Rick Robinson formerly of the Detroit Symphony, and is set before Marc Chagall's 'MUSIC' stained glass panel as part of his 'America Windows' displayed in Chicago Art Museum.

Black Lives Matter # 1 (after Yupari), 2021 12” x 9” x 1", 1 lb. oil on canvas paper This strong woman looks directly into the viewer's eyes; challenging us to consider American history and it's treatment of people brought to this country against their will. Her beauty and pride is evident; and the simple monochromatic modeling delineates her features.

Black Lives Matter #2, 2021 12” x 9” x 1", 1 lb.

This monochromatic paintings is set in complete profile; delineating the models strong features. She is adorned with hoop earrings; all that is needed to complete her extraordinary beauty.

Artist Statement: Making the transition from classical music to classical painting was not such a big conceptual leap for me. Both art forms demand years of serious training and analysis. After doing Alla-Prima painting (direct painting) I became interested in the classical method of constructing a painting in layers. After the design stage of several drawings, an ‘underpainting’ in monochromatic tones is created; over which layers of color glazes and impasto in the lights are added. This way I’m able to create the desired luminosity and rich effects that hopefully result. Bringing the Old Master approach to contemporary subjects I find interesting.

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Tim Wulf

Tim Wulf is well versed in bronze, glass casting, resins, utilizes canvas, water, rocks, acrylics, enamels, oil, inks, dry pigments, acids, bronze and other metal coatings, pewter and a variety of other materials. Tim studied Life Sculpture and Bronze Casting several years at Pratt Fine Art Center in Seattle.

Artist Statement Pursuit of Quality is the primary theme of many pieces. Not subjective quality. When subject and object find unity, that is where the magic happens. That is also when we are our best selves. Accomplishing this while making art is of the utmost importance. A wonderful byproduct is that the viewer can also experience this Quality. My art provides glimpses and reminders I need every day. This piece is from the Salt Fields Series.

War = Enslavement = Theft of Soul and Family / Part of the Salt Field's Series 8.5" High x 21" Wide x 13" Deep Resin, Bronze Coating, Patinas

This piece represents the first main theme, "Unconscionable Inhumane Treatment", in an exhibition entitled, The Salt Fields. The brutal kidnapping of people in Africa was every bit as much of a war as are current world conflicts: Control, manipulation, domination and over-retaliating; political and religious justification; allowing a few in power to ruin the lives of many. Racism is on the rise. This is a relevant social message needed today.

Transcending Smoldering Embers of Injustice 25" High x 22" Wide x 19" Deep Resin, Hydrochrome, pigments, Rubber

The atrocities of war, enslavement and excessive punishment. Spiral up or Spiral Down? The future depends on these decisions. Very powerful and relevant to our world situations.

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- Fashion Show -

Tony Vincente Rossario George symbolizes a lifestyle, a mindset, and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of excellence and the magic of wanderlust. The Rossario George brand seeks to inspire, empower, and enchant with their beauty, ready-to-wear, luxury gowns, and other lines allowing you to embrace your truest self and celebrate life's extraordinary moments.

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- Music -

Ronnue Ronnue is an American artists who have been taking the Indie World by storm one project at a time! Starting out producing and managing local Seattle and Atlanta groups he has gotten many people to the door but not through the door. So he decided to write, arrange, produce and release his music himself along with his producing partner Roc Phizzle. Since then he has become the critic darling, streamed over 2 million and counting on Spotify, won awards and topped many Indie charts. His goal for 2024 is to break and conquer the mainstream charts with his latest project, "R&B is NOT DEAD"

Ronnue gives you a classic R&B groove, laced with his smooth vocals and completed with a modern mix and master. Although his latest project is entitled "R&B is NOT DEAD" you can't put him a box . One day he might record R&B the next country. He loves all genres of music and records them all .

Gallery B612 Prince and Fox, LLC.

This artist issue was created for Gallery B612's African American Art Exhibition for the days of February 29, 2024 - April 6, 2024.

Located at 1915 1st Ave South, Seattle, Washington 98134 Designed by Kelly Cook

www.galleryb612.com