"Commonalities" art exhibit aims to bring together people from diverse backgrounds to spark conversations about unity, empowerment, and equality. This country thrives off diversity but too often we find ourselves focusing on the things that makes us different from one another. It can be where we come from, the language we speak, the religion we practice, skin tone, etc. We then create more separation and intolerance for one another.My "Commonalities"art piece represents all that we share in common no matter ones background. I utilized an array of different brown colors to showcase the diversity within our beautiful skin tones.The textured fabrics such as the paisley, suede, denim, leather, African print, quilt, etc. reveals the ways in which we all hold unique experiences with them. One can point out the common threads that unite us and begin to see people for who they are rather than the labels. It’s through these differences that one can lift the veil and see all that we actually share in common. Through my art pieces, I hope to ignite different perspectives, create more of understanding for one another, and join people together that normally wouldn't be united if it weren't for the power of art.
If granted this scholarship, I will be able to have the proper finical assistance to fund my very own art show. My message of unity is represented through an intersection of line, texture, and color and Peerspace will allow for me to spread that message even further. My experiences as black male in this country encourage me to help advocate for equality and unity and having the space to open up diverse dialogues is the first step towards making a change. I will curate my show to where people will learn more about my American experience, but also begin to see all the commonalities we share. I currently attend California College of the Arts as a full time student and live in one of the most expensive cities in the country. The thought of hosting an art exhibit seems like a long shot because my finances unfortunately can not support one. However, that does not deter me from continuing to creating art pieces and spread my message because I am a firm believer that the right opportunities will come when you authentically aim to make an impact and change in society. Peerspace will be able to give me that chance I need to magnify my voice, art, message, experiences, and hopefully move people to share their backgrounds and ideas.
Peerspace is on a mission to bring people together. We believe it is impossible to achieve that goal unless we also fight for equality and access to resources in the communities we serve.
Having a space to gather, create, and exchange ideas is an important part of any movement. In order to magnify voices that are often quieted, Peerspace will sponsor venues for people who challenge prejudice and fight for social justice and equality.
Each quarter, we will sponsor space for three projects that are relevant to our community. These projects can range from fundraisers and educational initiatives to art exhibits and photo series.
