J. BETTS
SHOLA C. SOGUNRO BLXCKBIRD
TYL3R JAMES
Family Ties
Family Ties is not just an event; it’s a homecoming. A cultural reset. A mashup of music, memory, and meaning, curated to honor the sacredness of Black family and community. At the intersection of Juneteenth and Black Music Month, Family Ties invites us to pause, gather, and reclaim joy at a time when rest, hope, and unity are radical and revolutionary.
This multi-sensory exhibit, curated by SOUSE, blends visual art, DJ mashups, storytelling, and archival reflection to explore what binds us across generations. Featuring work from Black visual artists and sonic curators, Family Ties is a living room of the culture—where the music is our heartbeat, the art is a mirror, and every piece speaks to love, lineage, and liberation. This is not just a celebration; it’s a reminder that we are each other’s inheritance. Everything is Us.
“THIS IS SOUSE: A PULSE, A SERMON WITH NO PULPIT, BLACK SOUND, INFINITE.” DR. VIEW
3.
A R T I S T S I N R E S I D E N C E
blxckbird
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
Jordan “Blxckbird” Broiles is a cultural producer, creative, and selfproclaimed renaissance man from Oklahoma City. Blxckbird leverage storytelling to create intentionally curated moments that leave lasting imprints on the mind and spirit. These moments, encompassing social media content , video art , and immersive community events, crafted to foster identity, culture, and liberation.
His work primarily explores the lived experiences of Black people with a particular focus on Oklahoman. Blxckbird aims to dispelled the false narratives that diminish Black presence in Oklahoma. Through his platform he aims to breath life into the stories and experiences that reflect Black resilience, creativity, and legacy. Through every moment he creates, he cultivates a holistic, sensorial experience that foster belonging and celebrates Black expression
m u s i c - a r t e x h i b i t - c u l t u r e 4 .
A R T I S T S I N R E S I D E N C E
blxckbird
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
FAMILY IS FOREVER, 2025
Family is Forever offers a heartfelt glimpse into the culture and traditions of Black family reunions through the perspective of my own family, the Ware Family. These gatherings are more than just a series of events; they are sacred spaces where connection, celebration, and memory intertwine. Our roots trace back to the small town of Meridian, Oklahoma, where Odess and Hazel Ware built a legacy grounded in love, resilience, and faith. Together, they raised 11 children, ten girls and one boy: Venora, Sarah, Joyce, Opal, Margaret , George, San Rafael, LaVerne, Lulu, Linda, and Vonnie. From their foundation, generations have bloomed. Anchored in the 2025 theme, Family is Forever, this reunion serves as a reminder that no matter where life takes us, we can always come home, because family is not just where we begin, but Ware the love is
FAMILY TIES: ROOTED IN OKLAHOMA, 2024
Family Ties: Rooted in Oklahoma is a collection of vlog videos that challenge the perception that Oklahoma lacks a Black presence or is not a place where Black people can thrive. This work is my creative response, breathing life into Oklahoma’s story, from Oklahoma City to Tulsa and the historic Black towns that shaped our heritage Through intentional storytelling and curated moments, I capture a deep sense of identity, culture, and liberation, proving that our roots here not only run deep, but continue to grow strong.
m u s i c - a r t e x h i b i t - c u l t u r e
Feahther ARTISTS IN RESIDENC
TULSA, OK
Elizabeth Henley is a painter and multimedia artist from Tulsa, Oklahoma. While living and working in Tulsa, she also attended several schools, including a brief study of Interior Design at Oklahoma State University. After several color theory and art classes, she realized her main passion was creating artwork through visual art. She began displaying her work publicly in 2015, but then refocused her pursuits to finding space in her local art scene for artists of color, specifically Black Artists in the Tulsa area This desire to see inclusion and diversity in art led her to found and create Black Moon in 2018, an all Black artist collective here in Tulsa focused on breaking standards, pushing innovation, and cultivating creativity among her local community. With the formation of Black Moon, Elizabeth and fellow artists have shown in several galleries and exhibitions throughout the Oklahoma area Her goal is to grow and develop her skills as an artist , but to also show representation through diversity in her pieces.
m u s i c - a r t e x h i b i t - c u l t u r e
Feahther ARTISTS IN RESIDENC
TULSA, OK
TETHERED IN LEGACY AND LOVE I
ELIZABETH FEAHTHER HENLEY
48” X 24”
ACRYLIC AND RESIN ON CANVAS
$500
TETHERED IN LEGACY AND LOVE II
ELIZABETH FEAHTHER HENLEY
48” X 24”
ACRYLIC AND RESIN ON CANVAS
$500
Tethered in Legacy and Love is a meditation on lineage, memory, and the enduring strength of Black familial bonds This body of work explores the passage of legacy from generation to generation. It speaks of how we are shaped not only by those who came before us, but also by the lives we will someday impact. Each repeated figure becomes a symbol of kinship and belonging, forming a visual rhythm that echoes both ancestry and continuity.
One figure in each piece gazes forward with open eyes to represent being rooted in the present , while surrounded by forms that gesture toward both the past and future The act of hands resting on shoulders signifies a silent vow of support that is passed between generations. This work continues a larger dialogue established in previous pieces, With the Guidance and Protection of My Ancestors and Echoes of Existence. Tethered in Legacy and Love invites viewers to consider the sacred threads that connect us and how we, too, are links in a larger, loving chain
j. betts ARTISTS IN RESIDEN
TULSA, OK
I am J. Betts, also known as Areambow, from Tulsa, Oklahoma. I started with graphic design at 16 years old, and progressed into teaching myself more I love to paint and create new worlds for myself and tell stories.
Original "Menace II Society" $300.00
8.5" x 11" Prints- $25.00
Description: Inspired by Menace II Society, this painting is my perspective of the messages I received watching the movie It’s about the generational trauma passed down in the Black community the kind that shapes you before you even know who you are. The piece speaks to the cycles that keep repeating, the pain that’s inherited, and the lack of unity that keeps us stuck. It’s for the kids growing up in it , not by choice, but by legacy
"My Exodus" (Not for Sale)
Description: The Cycle of Grief
8.5" x 11" Prints- $25.00
leondre lattimore ARTISTS IN RESIDENC
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
Leondre Lattimore was born in Oklahoma, USA and grew up in the eastside of Oklahoma City. Throughout his life, he has always shared an interest in drawing and painting After completing his Bachelor's degree in Studio Art and Graphic Design, Leondre delved further into his practice and began exploring aspects of his cultural identity through figurative representation. His goal is to highlight people and experiences with intentionally created works of art. Furthermore, he seeks to draw connections to his ancestry and ethnic history through the lens of contemporary lifestyles.
HEARTLAND SON - OIL ON CANVAS, 36 X 36 INCHES (BLUE BACKGROUND)
AS US AS CAN BE - OIL ON CANVAS, 30 X 30 INCHES (YELLOW BACKGROUND)
m u s i c - a r t e x h i b i t - c u l t u r e
Raasheda B ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
Raasheda Burnett is a multidisciplinary artist , curator, and creative community builder working across abstract painting, drawing, and fiber arts. Her artwork has been featured in solo and group exhibitions including the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, Allied Arts’ 2021 GOLDtini, and several Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC) shows such as the 2020 Concept Triennial, Momentum, and the 12x12 Exhibition (2020–2022)
Through vibrant layers of mixed media, textiles, and acrylics, Raasheda explores color theory, texture, and multidimensional storytelling. Her inspirations are rooted in people, nature, and the complexities of lived experiences - each stroke and material symbolizing resilience, connection, and the beauty within imperfection Her work suggests that every element , like every person, is distinct yet intrinsically linked within a greater whole.
Beyond the studio, Raasheda leads workshops focused on STEAM, selfexpression and positive self-image for youth and adults, including programs with the Girl Scouts of America She remains actively involved in community arts, volunteering with local organizations and advocating for creative expression as a path to personal wellness and collective healing
m u s i c - a r t e x h i b i t - c u l t u r e
Raasheda B ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
ARTIST NAME: RAASHEDA BURNETT
TITLE, YEAR: THE FREEDOM ,2025 DIMENSIONS: 20 X 20IN (H X W)
MEDIUM: ACRYLIC AND OIL PASTELS ON CANVAS.
PRICE: $1,200
ARTIST NAME: RAASHEDA BURNETT
TITLE, YEAR: THE JOY ,2025 DIMENSIONS: 20 X 20IN (H X W)
MEDIUM: ACRYLIC AND OIL PASTELS ON CANVAS.
PRICE: $1,200
ARTIST NAME: RAASHEDA BURNETT
TITLE, YEAR: THE COMMUNITY ,2025 DIMENSIONS: 20 X 16IN (H X W)
MEDIUM: ACRYLIC AND OIL PASTELS ON CANVAS.
PRICE: $70
ARTIST NAME: RAASHEDA BURNETT
TITLE, YEAR: A TOAST TO JUNETEENTH, 2025
DESCRIPTION: THIS INTERACTIVE TABLE INSTALLATION INVITES GUESTS TO GATHER, AND REFLECT IN HONOR OF FREEDOM. EACH HAND-PAINTED GLASS IS A VESSEL FOR JOY, MEMORY, AND HOPE GUESTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO WRITE A PERSONAL TOAST; AN EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE, A DREAM FOR THE FUTURE, OR A MESSAGE OF CELEBRATION THEN PLACE IT INSIDE THEIR COLLECTED GLASS OR COMMUNITY JAR.
shola c. sogunro ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
Framing Beauty: My Journey Behind the Lens
By Shola C Sogunro
Photography has always been more than just a skill or a profession for me it’s a way of seeing, a means of storytelling, and a celebration of life. My name is Shola Sogunro and I am a portrait photographer based in Oklahoma City At 28 years old, I have spent the past eight years refining my craft , using my camera to capture the essence of Black beauty and the power of human connection.
My journey into photography wasn’t planned. It began as a hobby, a way to document moments that felt too important to let slip away. Over time, that hobby grew into something deeper an undeniable passion The more I learned, the more I realized how photography could be a tool for appreciation, representation, and empowerment. I wanted my work to highlight the richness, depth, and elegance of Black beauty, ensuring that every subject I captured saw themselves in the most radiant and authentic way possible.
shola c. sogunro ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
Graduating from the University of Central Oklahoma gave me the foundation to approach my career with discipline and creativity While my formal education shaped my perspective, my camera became my true teacher. Each session, every subject , and all the stories shared through my lens taught me the importance of cherishing every moment. Photography is about more than just taking pictures it’s about preserving emotions, capturing legacies, and celebrating the beauty in everyday life As I continue this journey, my goal remains the same: to create images that inspire, empower, and honor the beauty of the world around me. I am excited for what the future holds, knowing that each click of the shutter is an opportunity to tell another story, to uplift another soul, and to continue showcasing the brilliance of Black beauty in all its forms.
shola c. sogunro ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
“PONY EXPRESS”
24 X 36
BY Shola C. Sogunro
The Pony Express was a fast, horsebackriding mail service that operated in the United states in the 1860s. It has now became an Oklahoma orginated competivtive sport, as an 8 man horseback relay race taken place at rodeos. It is very intense and excitied to watch The image displated are complieled of pony express riders and moments that I captured during the 2024 Oklahoma rodeo season.
“it Just Growth”
16 x 20
BY Shola C. Sogunro
This sneaker being one of my favorite shoes to wear and the beautiful flowers sprouting out to fhtem represents the growth on my journey. A walk in my shoes if you will. It hasn’t been easy, nor has it always been pretty.
But I believe that there is beauty in the struggle. To see what I have blossomed into was worth every bump in th erode to get tot where and who I am today.
Have you ever asked yourself “Why am I ourgrowing people I used to be closed to?” or ;”Why does this feel so uncomfortable even though I know it;s the right thing?” or even “Why doesn’t this version of me fit inthe same spaces anymore? The answer is simple It;s the growth 1 4 .
m u s i c - a r t e x h i b i t - c u l t u r e
ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
Tyl3r james
TULSA, OKLAHOMA
A native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Tyler James is a crea with a drive to create change with his art Got his from North Eastern Oklahoma in 2017. He was dra age, and once he got older and really discovered himself and his purpose through his craft , he decided to take it more seriously Since graduating he has become a fixture in the art scene here in Tulsa through collaboration and helping the art community build in the city.
With a focus in Abstract expressionism, he uses his art as a guide through life with color, self reflection and growth.
“For me, I treat my art pieces like a journal entry. Every piece in some form is me trying to understand myself and the life around me. Through that , I create colors and art you can grow with.”
-Tyler James
ARTISTS IN RESIDENC
Tyl3r james
TULSA, OKLAHOMA
Coded Languages (2022)
60x48
Price: $750
“At the time of creating this piece, I was listening to alot of jazz and jazz sampled music. Jazz and music have a way of speaking to you without saying a word sometimes. With jazz there's this combination of sound with different instruments that has a different role, to help create a song. Its a language in Jazz that helped create flows and vibes with different instruments. I wanted to display that with this piece.”
-Tyler James
Look Everybody Smile (2024)
30x40
Price: $400
“I was working on this piece freely and in the mindset to just create When I was finished, the shapes to me looked like they were staring back like I had a camera and they were posing. Reminded me of those family picture moments you get when you ' re at a reunion or family dinners Those moments are important for us in many different ways. Moments captured to help remind us of togetherness and love with the family”
-Tyler James
m u s i c - a r t e x h i b i t - c u l t u r e
unity jo ARTISTS IN RESI
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
Unity, the magical creator and unicor seamlessly blends the realms of cu personal growth and healing Her wh nothing short of enchanting, as she Unity into every thread and ingredien impact of creativity and exploration o for learning and connecting to one’s h art encourages others to explore thei way. Her workshops, whether focused on healing, painting a delectable dish or designing a unique piece of clothing, serve as a canvas for self-expression and personal discovery Through her guidance, Unity inspires others around her to embrace their individuality, fostering a community where creativity flourishes and compassion prevails, which is the true revolution
m u s i c - a r t e x h i b i t - c u l t u r e
unity jo ARTISTS IN RESI
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
We Are One: Family Dinner, 2025
We Are One: Family Dinner: is a mixed-media installation that uses acrylic on recycled cardboard, wood, recycled cloth and paper to represent the diverse dynamics within a family from the conservative to the black sheep. An old headboard symbolizing the ability to rest well knowing one is surrounded by love and safety. It serves as the dinner table, the heart of the home and anchoring the piece in themes of community and conversation. The string represents connection because without it there is suffering.
Each figure is uniquely crafted, reflecting varying shades of brown and distinct backgrounds to illustrate individuality, while their connection to the table speaks to shared roots and collective identity Despite differences in dreams, paths, and perspectives, every element converges around this central gathering place, inviting parents, siblings, uncles, aunts, and cousins to come together and heal. It also shows that family is what you make it to include family and other loved ones. 1 8 .
m u s i c - a r t e x h i b i t - c u l t u r e
unity jo ARTISTS IN RESI
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
The table stands as a metaphor for unconditional love, grace, mercy, empathy, and connection—essential ingredients for a strong familial foundation. This piece honors what family should be: a safe, nurturing space For those who haven’t experienced that on Earth, it offers a vision of how the universal mother and father holds us without fault , without trauma, but with Unconditional LOVE The only thing that truly matters.
DOORS OPEN & ART VIEWING 5:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.
OPENING ACT: KORA WAVES 6:00 P.M. - 6:45 P.M.
FIRST ACT: JUJUSOCRAZY
SECOND ACT: DJ AOA
THIRD ACT:
FINAL ACT: SOUSE POWER HOUR 8:45 P.M. - 9:45 P.M.
THANK YOU SPONSORS!
POWERED BY:
Stay connected with SOUSE! @theofficialsouse
SOUSE is an interactive and live presentation of DJ mashups that incorporate soulful, melodic R&B, Blues, Jazz, Afrobeat, House & Trap records, but with southern sauce.