As a trained writer, I knew how to enter and analyze any written work. But after a year off in college, living in Europe, I realized that I had no way to enter a painting.
It was Rome. Visiting high school friends studying abroad for art, we trecked across the city on foot to all the sites to glimpse these masterpieces of Western Art. Bernini and Caravaggio, Titian and Raphael; I was deeply moved by the work, vividly impressed by its beauty.
But I didn’t know why.
What was it about these pieces that made me so emotional? Why were these considered masterful? And how could I read what was in front of me to formulate my own opinion?
A series of fortunate events unfolded. I had watched some of my favorite musicians collaborate with visual artists from around the world on album artwork. A friend had told me about this incredible Black photographer, Mickalene Thomas. And I realized, despite my grandfather having been an artist and growing up surrounded by Black art, I had never sought to learn more. Living it through him was enough.
But suddently, I wanted to speak that language, too. I longed to understand.
I built my career, and myself, at the intersection of music, art, fashion, and film -- knowing that this is where Cultural Icons are defined. But art kept drawing me in. It was in the Black art community of New York that I finally felt like I had found a home.
In 2016 with the help of many friends, I mounted my own art x music gallery pop up with work from Mickalene Thomas, Hank Willis Thomas, Rashaad Newsome, Radcliffe Bailey, and Toyin Ojih Odutola. In 2017 when I launched my own company, clients wanted a career refresh and I moved them through Black art using creative directing and strategy. We commissioned work from Leslie Hewitt, liscensed work from Rashid Johnson, implemented a multi-year deal with The Museum of Modern Art’s Black Art Council, New Museum of New York, and others. And then, I was advising. Helping to add new pieces to clients’ and friends’ collections as I regularly roamed the fairs, attended the openings, with up to MFA open studios, made friends with collectors and quietly asked questions. Then came the board member conversations; the trustee offers for clients. Others would sign on with seven figure budgets, who got 2x return on their purchases I ushered in, within six months.
Art opened many doors for me. The world, beautiful and lush, unfolded before me with its artists, curators, gallerists, collectors, welcoming me in. Creating space for what I offered. Seeing me the way I wanted to be seen.
The biggest joy, in all of this work, has been walking others into these rooms for them to feel it, too. For them to see how much their worlds can expand, through art. For them to finally feel inspired, and a deep sense of belonging. The knowing of how this room and industry is for them, and being confident moving through it.
That is what I want for you.