“First Portal to Pomology”

This was the first inaugural introduction of this series to the world. Aside from a few social media platforms these have never been shown as a whole in person. And I’m grateful for my friend and curator Bizzie Ruth for aiding in the duration of this inaugural solo exhibition.

“August 3rd, 2024 @ Elles Studio in New Haven, CT”

This was my very first Solo Exhibition. It’s still kinda crazy to have that in my resume. No curator reached out to me and said ‘I like your work let’s do a show’ —or however that goes. I believed in myself and my work enough to create an event for them.

When I made the decision, I had about 7 paintings to start and complete: Papaya Mama, Piña Niño, Congo Blue, Palestine, Valentine, Kiwi, and Emotional Oranges, and Blacker the Berry. (So most of my collection, haha)

From left to right: Valentine, Papaya Mama, and Mango.

Memories resurface of me writing down that I wanted more Group shows and to finally have a solo show. The fatigue of yearning to “get noticed”, finally surfaced, so I took notice in myself, my desire to be seen—as much as my ego allows(being heard is a whole other thing)— and put that intention out into the universe.

The Universe responded: with friends willing to help me, with enough money to fund the show, with the perfect space to host, with the perfect crowd at opening night. Though this is a late post I am still very grateful for the first exhibition.

So I thank you and I thank me.