Black Artists Exhibition

breyahna "BREEZE" COSTON

Breeze, Seattle-born and Tacoma-based, has already established themselves as a prominent figure in the Pacific Northwest art scene.

Before pursuing art full-time, Breeze worked as a barber, developing an eye for detail and precision that translates seamlessly into their work. They also studied at Yale, where they deepened their understanding of art theory and technique. Breeze's skill set is impressive, ranging from mural work and canvas art to sculpting. They seamlessly shift between mediums, creating pieces that are captivating and unique. Their formative years at Garfield, a renowned arts-focused high school in Seattle, also influenced their artistic vision and approach. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, Breeze's works are imbued with a sense of wonder and a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things. 

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Brittany Spencer

As a Black woman raised in the Pacific Northwest, my art is a celebration of the stories, images, and colors that shaped my identity. Inspired by family photographs and oral histories passed down through generations, I explore the intersection of memory and culture. Through my work, I juxtapose vibrant, unconventional hues with everyday scenes, creating a visual language that reflects the deep joy and resilience of Blackness. Each piece invites viewers to reconsider traditional depictions of Black life, focusing instead on the beauty and strength found in moments often overlooked. My use of color serves as a medium to challenge expectations, offering a fresh perspective on the emotional and spiritual richness of our experiences. In honoring the stories of my family, I seek to amplify the narratives of Black joy, love, and community, while embracing the unique environment that has shaped my journey.

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Charde' Brown

Charde’ Brown, the creative force behind “Mirrors of Melanin,” is a self-taught artist based in Washington. Her work, primarily in oil paint, mixed media, and both soft and oil pastels, delves into human emotions and past experiences. Through expressive and tasteful nudity, Charde’ explores mental health struggles, offering a tangible representation of her emotional journey. Additionally, she shines a spotlight on African American children, portraying them as royal figures and trendsetters, highlighting their potential as world changers of this generation.

Her art serves as both expression and therapy, reflecting her experiences as a Black woman. Brown’s creations evolve constantly, providing a refuge from societal pressures and resonating with many. Her mission is to create a sanctuary for those feeling unseen and misrepresented, shedding light on mental well-being and encouraging viewers to look beyond the surface.

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Charles Conner

Charles Conner aka The Original Spur, hailing from Mississippi, has been an artist since the age of four. He first learned to draw Ninja Turtles from his siblings and was hooked ever since.

He continued his love of art all the way up into college, and even after joining the military while in highschool it did not cease.

After a tour in Iraq, PTSD would hinder him for over a decade from producing even the simplest of art forms.

Though he struggled, he now uses his creativity and imagination to create one of a kind surreal pieces filled with vibrant colors and a semi realistic interpretation of his surroundings from the Black man's perspective.

Creativity, Positivity, and Individuality. Welcome to the journey of The Original Spur!

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Darryl Owens

My earliest memories were of gazing at certain Album covers while seated between Mom and Dad. I suppose the intersection of Art and Music began here because of my 'interest' in the liner notes and titles, never mind I couldn’t yet read either of it!

I remember a conversation between my art and music teachers in junior high that really inspired me. I asked, 'Well why can't I do both?' Why not was their reply!

So I set out to prove I might. Not all, but many of my themes revolve around musicians I've either admired or their instrumentation.

I often try to capture a gesture or posture that intrigues me. I then went on to a Degree in Art at Western Washington University, with a concentration on Art History. Currently, I'm on the faculty at Clover Park Technical College specializing in Graphic Design.

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Dionne Bonner

I examine the unique characteristics reflected in community through public art, commissioned pieces and design. And through that process discover more about people and culture, and the public place becomes a model for understanding. My first commissioned painting project was in 1994. I painted a series of portraits depicting Washington State's First African American Pioneers. Since then, I’ve collaborated on public art projects, exhibited my work in galleries and coffee shops, with other artists, in group shows, helped to manage coops, designed and led tactical street art, and countless other projects within my local community. The historical portrait project was one of my most memorable. It helped me become aware of a rich history. This discovery helped me relate more meaningfully to my own place, because I was able to locate myself within the historical context. And in turn my work shares that exploration with the viewer.

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Edimbo Lekea

Born of Congolese parents, Edimbo Lekea is a "Franco-Congolais" artist painter born in a small town of Creil, France. It wasn't until the early ages of 5 to 6, that Edimbo got to develop his creative skill through various sketches. From there, it would be an on and off relationship. After moving to Kent, WA in 2003, Edimbo was exposed to so many different cultures. Within the African diaspora, there was a saying that Black folks didn't know there history enough or at all. Being so fascinated with different sound in black music (from reggae, Rumba, Hip Hop, jazz, Old School R&B, zouk and other genre), Edimbo decided to take it upon himself to unearth the mystic of Black History, and merge it into the his Paintings. In 2015 Edimbo started Natty Dread Illustration for 1 soul purpose, to create a sanctuary were Blacks could learn about our culture.

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Emily Martin

Emily Martin is a multicultural glass artist. Emily was born and raised in the Hilltop neighborhood of Tacoma, Washington. Serendipitously, living in the Hilltop afforded Emily the privilege of exposure to glass at the young age of eleven. Emily spent her youth learning how to create glass art with the Hilltop Artist Program. Hilltop Artist is a local organization. Co-founded by Dale Chihuly, dedicated to enriching the lives of the youth through glass art. Since then, Emily has worked in varying capacities at the Museum of Glass with the education department, Hot shop Heroes, and Science of Art program. Emily finds joy in impacting others' lives through glass art.

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Hilltop Artists with Corey Pemberton

Hilltop Artists uses glass art to connect young people, ages 12 to 26, from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds to better futures. Corey Pemberton is an LA-based visual artist who works in glass and painting, he is founder/director of Crafting the Future (CTF) (craft school scholarships for BIPOC students) and Better Together (a Black artists collective). Corey debuted the new CTF residency 'Homeschool' in October, 2024 at Hilltop Artists. He collaborated with Hilltop Artists' students on the project "Hilltop Cookout", where each student designed tableware that they kiln fused or created in hot glass. The project culminated with a table set for 30 people and a bbq potluck. The pieces for this show were made collaboratively at this residency.

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James Butler

Self-taught abstract Artist whose work has captivated audiences with its unique style and emotional depth. I lead Abstract Art Therapy sessions at The University of Washington (Tacoma) for Veterans and their families, providing a creative outlet and support. Additionally, I organize Free Community Paint and Chill events for the youth, Partnering with The RISE Center fostering creativity and community engagement. As a dedicated Peer Specialist and active member of the Hilltop community, I am passionate about building meaningful relationships and empowering others with valuable resources. My Artistic creativity and commitment to fostering connections are at the heart of everything I do, making a significant impact both through my art and community involvement.

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Jasmine Brown

Jasmine Brown was born in Indianapolis, Indiana and traveled to five continents before moving to Washington and settling in Tacoma. She earned her B.F.A. in Design at Howard University and her M.A. in International Studies from UCLA. Brown was the recipient of a 2011 & 2017 Puffin Foundation Grant and an Artist Trust GAP Award.

In 2017, she also expanded her studio practice into public art. She has shown her temporary public art installation “Black Teen Wearing Hoodie” photo mural series in various locations in Seattle and Tacoma, including Photo Center Northwest, Africatown, Pratt Art Center, Frye Museum of Art, and Amazon headquarters. Her work is in the collections of the Wing Luke Museum, the Trayvon Martin Foundation, and the portable art collections of both Seattle and Tacoma.

Her first permanent bronze sculpture was unveiled at Tacoma’s Eastside Community Center in fall of 2021. Her upcoming installations include permanent public art projects for Spokane Libraries, Sound Transit, Evergreen Tacoma and Africatown Community Land Trust.

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Jonarra Swanson

Meet Jonarra Swanson, a visionary Seattle artist who defies societal norms by normalizing the strength and vulnerability it takes to support a community that prioritizes mental health. Born with an innate passion for the mental health advocacy Jonarra discovered her artistic prowess at an early age. Her creativity became both an escape and a powerful means of self-expression.

In 2023, Jonarra founded her own business, NARR merging her artistic flair with a keen business acumen. Through her business, she strives not only to share her artistic talents with the world but also to uplift her community. This year, in 2024 she has dedicated a lot of her time to teaching youth workshops, and creating murals. Her commitment to empowerment extends beyond the canvas, as she actively mentors and supports aspiring artists, children, and young women of color.

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JW Harrington

JW Harrington is a painter, social-science professor, and trained baritone, living, painting, and singing in Tacoma, Washington. Using acrylic and oil paints on canvases or panels, he paints abstract works: some using strict, “rational” patterns of complementary colors; some eschewing color for monochrome shades; and some using free, intuitive composition. He also paints portraits and animated landscapes, motivated by the vibrant beauty of the Puget Sound region.

Harrington was raised in South Carolina, educated at Harvard University and the University of Washington, and has worked on east and west coasts of the U.S. After a 37-year career of teaching, research and administration, he is now Professor Emeritus of Urban Studies at the University of Washington Tacoma.

He’s studied painting and drawing with Sandy Bricel Miller in Seattle. His work has been shown throughout the region, and hang in corporate and institutional collections in Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia.

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Kadin Harris

My name is Kadin Harris and I am a painter based in Tacoma, Washington. My journey as an artist started from when I was a baby and would copy images from my dad's Dragon Ball manga as family and friends. I pursued animation as a career up until my senior year of high school where I started painting. My work now primarily focuses on showing the viewer my memories in order for them to build a connection with me on a personal level that cannot be reached with words alone.

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Kristen "Kcie" Monk

Kristen “Kcie” Monk, based in Tacoma, Washington, is an artist and illustrator who specializes in all things fantasy and whimsy. She loves drawing mermaids, witches and fairies among other mythical creatures. Her medium of choice is primarily digital art but she is also very passionate about traditional techniques. Kcie is ambitious and always willing to experiment with mixed media. Her drawings are highly detailed, vibrantly colorful and picturesque.

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Lorra Jackson

Lorra Jackson is a classically trained painter who earned her Master’s degree from New York Academy of Art in New York City. Her work contains central themes of memory, racial and gender identity. She has exhibited in New York, her work is in collections in New York and China, and she has completed a residency in St. Barth’s. Much of Jackson’s work is an exploration of the legacy of her biracial identity and Korean and African American heritage. The idea of legacy is further expanded in her portraits of her family.

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Rene Westbrook

I am an award winning, multimedia artist with five decades of artistic excellence. I have won awards and recognition in painting, sculpture and photography. Originally from Harlem, New York, I graduated from Massachusetts College of Art as a Danforth Finalist in Classical Sculpture. I continued my craft in painting and Photography as an AAMARP recipient (African American Master Artist in Residency) for five years at Northern University in Boston, MA. I was also an Artist in Residence in Oakland- Richmond, CA for 3 years, before moving to Washington state.

In Olympia, I have won 2 Artist Trusts awards, the SOLA award and several local grants. I have exhibited my artwork on both coasts and have received a Merit award from the juried Southwest Regional show at SPSCC, 2024. Earlier this year, my work was in Olympia City Hall and was selected to hang at the US Embassy in Barbados.

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Sabreehna Essien

A Mental Health Professional working Artist who works for an Inpatient Acute Care Private Hospital which provides Evaluation and Treatment for community members in crisis. In the acute setting, I provide Behavioral Health Services, implement effective modalities, write petitions, and contribute Clinical perspective to a multidisciplinary Treatment Team. I consider myself a Creative due to the variety of artistic expression through paintings, drawing, sketching, dance, song, photography, and building mixed media pieces. My inspiration in 2024 is our environment, space, the universe, and authenticity of self. Gratitude and kindness are my chosen theme this year.

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Sandra Bocas

I'm a self-taught artist, using my experience as a make up artist and model as my story and subject matter. My Caribbean heritage gives my bright palette life!

 

 

 

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Sariyah Ward

I’m Sariyah, an artist and founder of Ready Or Not Ink in Tacoma, WA, established in 2016. My artistic journey began at age three, as my grandma fondly recalls. Growing up in Tacoma, I graduated from Mount Tahoma High School and pursued graphic design, but my true passion emerged in art and tattooing. In 2019, I earned a certificate as a master esthetician, deepening my understanding of my craft and skin. I started painting with various mediums at 20. Art has transformed my life, allowing me to help others learn and thrive. Becoming a mother to my son, Ahmad, in 2021 opened my eyes to new opportunities within my shop. I aspire to create spaces where young minds can freely express themselves and explore creativity. I owe my journey to my community and my parents, who run The Fish House Cafe, a staple that fuels my desire to serve beyond art.

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Semenia Black

Semenia Black (they/she) is a multidisciplinary artist, abolitionist, and sister of the yam. Their visionary works have centered on aberrant narratives of recovery, inspired by the hauntings of the soul. In this exhibition, Semenia’s work spotlights the importance of early detection for prostate cancer in the black community. They continue to work on the Virgin Mary (VM) collection: sites of remembrance, reclamation, and rebirth; a collection of multimedia works that explore the splinters of assault and survivorship. A descendant of African people, Semenia is a multiethnic, queer, gender fluid person first named Necashaw on the Gabrielino/Tongva ancestral lands called Long Beach, CA and currently resides on unceded lands of the Coast Salish people, the spuyalepabš (Puyallup), called Tacoma, WA. Connect with them @semeniaback on Instagram. 

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TyResha Jones-Smith

I have always had a deep love and passion for art and the different medias that it comes in. Over the years, my style has transitioned from sketching to mixed medias paintings. I enjoy art because it gives me the ability to inspired styles, themes and genres. In my years of pursuing my degree in Interior Design, I have made sure I have always left room for my artistic passion as design and art go hand and hand. When it comes to my work, I both create and design art pieces that can easily blend the line between art and decor for interior spaces. The purpose of creating my signature series is that each is an inspiration that explores all spectrum of possibilities, abstract collections and styles that can enhance a room.

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Valencia Carroll

Valencia Carroll is a classically trained oil painter and teaching artist who explores lighting, color harmony, and composition to address both personal and universal themes. Her latest series, "Alpha-Babies," re-imagines childhood dolls, and delves into identity, motherhood, perseverance, joy, curiosity and nostalgia.

Alongside her personal practice, Valencia creates engaging art-making experiences in museums, schools, public parks, and community centers across western Washington. She has led school tour art workshops at the Seattle Art Museum and facilitated the here:now program at the Frye Art Museum, creatively engaging older adults living with dementia and their care partners. Valencia has also collaborated with other arts organizations such as Urban ArtWorks, SilverKite, and Arts Impact to name a few, where she partnered with Tacoma Public Schools to foster creative learning.

Committed to making art accessible, Valencia cultivates inclusive, inspiring environments that encourage creativity in everyone.

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