Events for October 5, 2024

Taking inspiration from the solo albums of hip hop artists, Edgar 8ahau Fernandez uses Creations from Within, Vol. 2 as an opportunity to showcase his commitment to his craft and display ten years of artistic growth since his first solo exhibition in 2013. Disrupting the myth of the lone creative genius, Fernandez invited a group of artists with diverse talents to collaborate on the exhibited pieces, adding new perspectives and context to his artworks. By exploring the stream-of-consciousness approach that has helped him express his most authentic self, Fernandez hopes viewers can tap into their own creative power to transform their stories, their perspectives, and their futures.

There is an unspoken sense of responsibility shouldered by artists who are people of color. While each work remains the personal expression of an individual artist, it also becomes representative of a community – the voice of many. While there is a satisfaction in fulfilling this role and welcoming viewers into these unique experiences – whether joyous or uncomfortable – we must not forget the beauty and joy that comes purely from the act of creating. In this exhibition, artists have, if just for a moment, become unbound from the responsibility of representation and allowed themselves to be not just representatives for their communities, but themselves.