June 18th, 2022 – Williamsburg, Brooklyn’s Goodtimes Yoga studio became a space for emerging Black artists to celebrate culture and highlight the significance of Juneteenth, a recently recognized federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The artists selected for this activation presented their commissioned pieces during an evening filled with food and drinks where those from all walks of life could come to celebrate with friends, support the creative work, and empower their education through the lens of art. The four artworks offered a window into the artists’ background, segueing into a panel conversation led by Nazeer Sabree, Kendall Bessent, Desireé Vaniecia, and Yolanda Hoskey. For additional information regarding this event and its artists, we ask that you refer to our initial SNIPES Juneteenth Artist Spotlight blog post. Each piece is presented below with a short description providing insight into the world of the emerging artists who were thrilled to display their pieces during this historic event.
Nazeer’s work typically takes inspiration from his hometown of Philadelphia, sparking social and cultural conversations centered around Blackness. The piece that Nazeer created for the artist spotlight event gives prominence to an affectionate embrace, celebrating the intimacy of the Black community.
From the ATL and currently residing in New York, the rich history of Black culture in the South plays a large role in Kendall’s artwork. Kendall’s piece represents the complexities of Black beauty with photography featuring equestrians, mothers, children, and more to spark conversations around social justice and equality.
An artist and educator from Dallas, Texas, Desireé displays her artwork throughout the community, with themes of power, strength, and vulnerability apparent across her works. The inspiration for this piece comes from the idea of heritage and connection to a matriarchal upbringing.
From Brooklyn, NY, Yolanda’s work challenges the perception of Black people with an emphasis on poor Black communities. The piece created by Yolanda for this event celebrates grill culture and the personal style of the inner city.
Each of the artists had an incredible experience pouring their hearts into their pieces and providing further information during the panel discussion. The event’s contemporary celebration of Juneteenth gave the stage to four up-and-coming artists who continue to speak on the Black community through their work. SNIPES will also continue to honor Black history and culture beyond our Juneteenth celebrations, so please follow us on our Instagram, read up on our blog posts, and download the mobile app to stay up to date on everything SNIPES.
