Bed-Stuy Art Walk | Women in Art Panel and Exhibition

Sitting with select works from 2013-2015.

"Woman in Art", Bed-Stuy Art Walk, Macon Brooklyn public Library.

Last Saturday, I was invited to be apart of what became my first solo panel and exhibition apart of the Bed-Stuy Art Walk. I had the chance to discuss my work, perspective as a female artist and break down each piece.

Each peace holds a special place in my heart. This was a great moment to reflect while releasing them at the same time. 

Initially, I was told there would be other artists for the panel, however I learned that my style, consistent and approach to the subject matter got the attention of the organizer and was the only artist for the event. After being contacted, I organically chose the works that closest to me, and truest to my artistic voice. The panel was a bit over an hour and we were able to deliver a dynamic discussion touching on all the things possible.

After talking about my work, the curator, Hamida Novachovich shifted into topics like inspiration, women's perception of art making and more.  At some point I said, 

When asked about my work, I'm often asked "Feminist? Pro-Black? Melting pot of other labels and themes of life?" 

Check, all of the above. 

The label is self-reflective. "I represent that which I am. A black female artist. I like representing other black female artists. That is identifying self in others, spreading reflections of my kind. No labels are made really, when it is done by the majority, but rather when it is done by the less than seen, it's questioned and considered activism. These days, I think "why does I have to be a protest to represent the image that you are.?" "... You are born for it. Now more than ever we need to take advantage of representing ourselves while we have that platform."

Here are all of the works that were displayed. Sitting with works dating from 2013-2015. All works are currently available. Any inquiries please contact me at sarajbillustration@gmail.com 

Prints, Edition of 20 (hung). : 🔝

"Just Surrender" : 

14 x 18 print in 18" x 24" frame

"With These Hands" :

16" x 20" print in 20" x 24" frame

"Buckets to Bags: What American Dream?" : 

14" x 18" print in 18" x 24" frame

Original Paintings 🎨🔛 shelf

"The Capacity of Holding On"

Acrylic on Canvas

16" x 20"

"Waterfalls: Left Eye Tribute"

Acrylic on Canvas

16" x 20"

"Be Still"

Acrylic on Canvas

16" x 20"

Just Surrender

Acrylic on wood Panel, (birch) Gloss Varnish

16" x 20" 

"Woman in Art", Bed-Stuy Art Walk, Macon Brooklyn Public Library, 8.1.15

📷 @ebony_bolt