It's hard not to look back and smile when I think about the unforgettable day I revealed my latest creation, "Harlem of the South." It was on Wednesday, September 27, to be exact. Venture Richmond commissioned me to create this vibrant painting for the 2nd Street Festival's 35th Anniversary. I'm incredibly grateful for their trust in me to capture the essence of the Jackson Ward community's rich history and deep-rooted connection to music for the official festival poster.
The 2nd Street Festival 35th Anniversary
I was excited to be a part of such a significant event showcasing my art to a broader audience on a beautiful, mild-weathered Fall weekend. The sun's rays were warm and comforting against my skin, and the gentle breeze carried the scent of freshly cooked, mouthwatering soul food right at the start. As soon as I arrived at the festival, I was in awe of the spirit and energy of the Jackson Ward community. Watching the streets come alive with the sounds of music, laughter, and conversations was a beautiful sight to see!
The weekend that the 2nd Street Festival took place was a whole vibe. It was an incredible event where you had the opportunity to take a piece of history home by collecting one of the posters available at Venture Richmond's tent. I was at my booth on Artist's Row on 2nd Street and Clay Street, autographing the posters I created for the last two festivals and sharing some memorable moments with festival-goers.
Being a part of this festivity is an honor that I cherish. In fact, to say I was honored to be a part of it would be an understatement because I've grown up marveling at this festival all my life. The 2nd Street Festival is more than just a celebration. It's a vibrant expression of the prosperous history of Jackson Ward, the Black Wall Street of Virginia.
I enjoyed hearing others' stories who had been attending and collecting the festival poster each year since childhood. Through their stories, I learned more about how the festival evolved over the years while still holding on to its roots in the community. Their passion for the festival and their love for the Jackson Ward neighborhood was inspiring.
For those who could not attend the festival, I kept the creative energy flowing through my social media updates, offering glimpses of the lively celebrations. I shared some of the highlights of the festival, from the upbeat rhythm of jazz and hip-hop to the delicious food that the attendees enjoyed. The love and response I received in return were incredibly uplifting, and mostly from people who had not even viewed the painting in person.
If you missed the festival or want to relive the experience, I got you! You can bring the festival's vibrancy into your home with a piece from my 2nd Street Festival Collection. I produced a limited run of 35 signed and numbered fine art prints of "Harlem of the South" to commemorate the 35th anniversary. Each print is imbued with the essence of the festival's spirit and is a testament to the Jackson Ward community. This way, you can enjoy a captivating piece of the festival's energy in your living space.
Furthermore, I have a variety of other items available on my website, including apparel, totes, and greeting cards featuring the painting "Harlem of the South." These items are perfect for those who want to show their love for the festival and the Jackson Ward community.
I cannot express my gratitude enough for the incredible support and enthusiasm you have shown me through this. Your unwavering encouragement fuels my passion for art, and I look forward to celebrating many more beautiful moments with you.
Thank you for being a part of this colorful part of my art journey. I'm excited about the future and can't wait to share it with you.