Studio Noize: Black Art Podcast

It’s every artist’s dream to be able to do what you want to do. International superstar artists, like today’s guest, Harmonia Rosales, are out here living their creative dreams and its inspirational to all the rest of us. Not only has Harmonia been creating her amazing Renaissance inspired paintings, she has recently finished her first sculpture commission with Unbound at the King’s Chapel in Boston. As if that wasn’t amazing enough she has written Chronicles of Ori: An African Epic, a personal retelling of African myths passed down to her from her grandmother. Harmonia talks about all her latest works and we get into other topics like: what is it like in the studio with Harmonia, the good and bad parts about her success and the power of the stories in her high anticipated book. Listen, subscribe and share!Episode 208 topics include:maturing as an artist vs evolving as an artistcreating Unbound sculpture for King’s Chapellesson learned at the foundrytalking to/ talking with your artHarmonia’s perfect studio dayartists need encouragementcreating her new book Chronicles of Oriusing mythology and history to connect to your rootsthe gift and curse of success as an artistHarmonia Rosales BioSince the genesis of her career, Harmonia Rosales’s main artistic concern has focused on Black female empowerment in Western culture, depicting and honoring the African diaspora.As a young girl, the impeccable skill and composition of the Renaissance masters' fascinated her but the depiction of white hierarchy and the idealization of subordinate women, often falling under Eurocentric notions of beauty, dissuaded her passion. Thus, her message is not to create an ideal or simply to copy, but rather to create a sense of harmony between the struggling dichotomies.The artist is informed by the ebb and flow of contemporary society where she seeks to reimagine new forms of aesthetic beauty, snuggled somewhere between pure love and ideological counter-hegemony.Rosales draws on the energy of living life as a woman of color and society's objectification of that identity. Yet her subjects embody something within us all as they serve as conduits to an inner struggle within our society, which she depicts through metaphorical crowns and deities. The primary purpose of her art is and will always be to encourage sympathy, empathy, and empowerment.See more: Harmonia Rosales’ website + Harmonia Rosales’ IG honeieeHarmonia Rosales Launches Book Tour For Chronicles Of Ori: An African EpicFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

Happy Atlanta Art Week! Its exciting time around the city. With so much going on its a perfect time for a new episode of the Noize! Let them other folks deal with that crazy Atlanta traffic. You can sit back in your studio and listen to two printmakers and educators talk about art. We got Harris Wiltsher on the show today. Harris has been teaching art at Florida A&M University for 29 years. He talks about the changes in education over his career, the different ways students and technology has evolved in the classroom, the highs and lows of higher education, and of course, we talk about his beautiful prints. All that and more on this episode of the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 207 topics include:teaching at FAMU for 29 yearschanges in students over decadeseconomics of printmakingwhat are the new students doing conceptually In What We See print show traveling to HBCU’sthe benefits of being at an HBCUthe genesis of the Crown seriesmaking an interesting printHARRIS WILTSHER BioBorn in New York, New YorkRaised in The Bronx“To address specific elements of black history or its community certainly is attainable but the position of my work is to provide a cultural and / or educational meaning to dialogue with my audience and document my personal experiences within the framework of African Diaspora.” Wiltsher’s artistic endeavors span from being a Bronx Recognizes Its Own (BRIO) recipient, visiting artist, lecturer, independent curator, program administrator for the Florida Art in State Buildings Program, professor and Gallery Director at Florida A & M University.  In addition, his work is included in collections by the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Cranbrook Academy of Art Museum, Sande Webster Gallery Collection, Carver Federal Bank, Art Academy of Honolulu and The Black Archives Research Center & Collection Reserve. See more: Harris Wiltsher’s website + Harris Wiltsher’s IG @harriswiltsher.art Follow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

There is no one way to succeed in this art game. Melissa A. Mitchell is showing us all how to make moves with your art. The story will be told of her incredible run of partnerships, from Spanx, to Foot Locker to Bloomingdales, etc. Today on the Noize we’re going to acknowledge and appreciate the creative talent behind the brand. Melissa talks about her process, her studio, her journey into wearable art, and the deeper connections under the bright colorful designs. Her new ventures include furniture, a new book of affirmations, and much more. That good art talk you love with a global superstar on the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 206 topics include:artist vs creativewhere do ideas come fromdeeper connections in Mellissa’s artMelissa’s studio set uppartnership with Bloomingdalesthe power of personalitydesigning furniturethe journey into wearable artnew book of affirmationsstories from people moved by your artMelissa A. Mitchell Bio:Melissa A. Mitchell is a powerhouse and a prominent Bahamian artist closing critical gaps in art, technology, and fashion worldwide. In just eight short years, the self-taught artist has earned international recognition and the attention of many high-powered and leading brands. This Miami, Florida native utilizes her ideas and creations to heal people through the happiness that only creating can bring. A global deal with Foot Locker, winning a Ford Explorer from a global contest/campaign, a global deal with SPANX, an official TED TALK speaker, an inaugural member of Hennessey’s “Never Stop Never Settle Society, an Afropunk/ Shopify Black Fashion Accelerator member, and features in Forbes and Vogue (design worn by Lupita Nyong’o) only scratch the surface of her accomplishments. Her company, Abeille Creations (ABL), is unique and easy to identify, and Melissa’s impact is undeniable. She is a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, holding a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a minor in graphic design. She also earned a master’s degree in public management from the elite institution. She cultivates her philanthropic reach through the college and as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.   She has created over 500 original art pieces and 40 larger-than-life murals. Other notable features and partnerships include ESSENCE Magazine, Black Enterprise, Atlanta Journal Constitution, The Huffington Post, Peloton, Cadillac, Microsoft, Pepsi, CNN, The Home Depot, MARTA, Jack Daniels, and countless others. Her signature headwraps are textiles that still hold beautiful life and have been worn on Tabitha Brown, Amara La Negra, Yandy Smith, Karen Civil, Rebecca Gross, and more. She is also the author of a coffee table book, Views from My Kaleidoscope and an interactive coloring book, Color &Manifest. The mind of Melissa is sharp and sure to continue to magnify the excellence placed in her to be a household and international name. The heart of Melissa is one of the best, and she pours it so graciously into her work and people, producing a needed change in this world.   See more: Melissa A Mitchell’s website + Melissa A Mitchell’s IG @abeillecreations Follow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

In Tandem, the joint exhibition between printmaker extraordinaire Chloe Alexander and your boy, JBarber, recently ended its run at the Emma Darnell Aviation Center in Atlanta, GA. If you made it thank you we definitely appreciate your support. If you didn’t get to see the show now worries! We recorded the artist talk live and your can still here the insights of this incredible show. Moderated by Studio Noize fam Natassha Chambliss, Chloe and Jamaal take about the big themes of the show, relationships, grief and memory. They also talk about the exploration of color, pushing the printmaking medium to new limits, the approach to curating and much more. Its that good art talk (literally!) that you love right here on the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 205 topics include:In Tandem artist talk recorded live at the Emma Darnell Aviation Centerweaving narratives togetherexploring printmaking as a mediumresponding to the moment pushing each other to be greatcurating Bonds of Kinship exhibitionhow to Jamaal and Chloe picked the colors for the showchildhood memories Chloe Alexander Bio:Chloe Alexander is a printmaker who lives and works in Atlanta, Georgia. Her most recent work focuses on using various printing techniques to create unique works and varied editions. She obtained a BFA from the Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design at Georgia State University in 2010. Since then, her work has been exhibited broadly, including at Kai Lin Art in Atlanta, the International Print Center in New York, and the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair in London. Chloe has received several awards, including the Parent Artist Award at Kala Art Institute in Berkeley, California and the Penland Summer Residency Fellowship at Penland School of Craft in North Carolina. Her work is included in numerous public and private collections, including the Harvard Museums in Cambridge, MA; The Museum of Fine Art in Boston, MA; The Fidelity Investments Art Collection; and The Petrucci Family Foundation for African American Art in Asbury, NJ.Jamaal Barber bio:Jamaal Barber is a creative, imaginative soul born in Virginia and raised in North Carolina. In 2013, after seeing a screen printing demo at a local art store, Jamaal started experimenting with printmaking, making it his primary focus. His woodcuts and mixed-media prints illustrate the new Folio Society special edition of The Underground Railroad written by Colson Whitehead. Jamaal recently participated in the MTV/Smithsonian Channel art competition show The Exhibit. He has also worked for Twitter, the New York Times, Penguin Random House, Black Art in America, and Emory University. See more: Chloe Alexanders’ website + Chloe Alexander’s IG @cbrooksart + Jamaal Barber’s website + Jamaal Barber’s IGFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

The Atlanta art community is second to none. The scene is so vibrant, diverse and supportive in so many ways. Courtney Brooks has been on the scene as an artist and curator for many years. She recently got the opportunity to open her own gallery space, CBrooks Gallery, and take her creative vision to the next level. We caught up to Courtney live in her gallery space to talk about her growth as curator from to doing pop-up shows to running a gallery space, balancing her artistic practice with curating and how to pour into yourself after you do so much for others. It’s that good art talk you love to hear on the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 204 topics include:operating an art galleryspecial art residency integrating art into residential spacesKnow Regrets inaugural show at CBrooks Art Gallerygrowth in curating from pop-ups to galleriesJourney of a Black Girl projectmaking art focused on Black girls/womentaking care of yourselfCourtney Brooks Bio:An avid supporter for all creatives, Courtney is proud to be a visual artist first and is not afraid to experiment with various mediums like, watercolor, acrylic, oils and photography.  Through personal experiences, traveling aboard, whether teaching art classes, painting on canvas or walls, her love for art and building relationships have led to a journey of curating. Since 2014, she developed professional skills that have provided a platform for her peers through creative direction,team building, private and community fundraising events, solo shows and group exhibitions. The significance of the work Courtney has contributed thus far has opened many opportunities. She is the former a Gallery Director  and curator of the Southeast Community Cultural Center, known as the ArtsXchange’s Jack Sinclair Gallery. In addition, the first woman of color Curator- in- Residence for Art the Atlanta BeltLine, where she will have the freedom to transform a public art space. Brooks has a gift to work with a wide range of  entrepreneurs, small businesses, grass root based organizations and collaborates with emerging to established visual artists of multiple disciplines, cultures and backgrounds. Along with assisting artists/ muralist  as a curator, she focuses on understanding the creative process and undiscovered narratives that provides a sense of urgency. Her goal is to help maximize artists’ potential and  expand the visibility in their careers. She understands that being curator carries a role with great expectations and It is a privilege to share work from private collections, establish studio visits and handle concepts with care.See more: Courtney Brooks’ website + Courtney Brooks IG @cbrooksartFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

To understand what it takes to have a long career in this art game we have to talk to the people that have been doing for decades. LaShun Beal has been making and selling art for 50 years. He’s seen all facets of the art world and has a lot of gems to give on working with galleries, the approach to creating, how to survived at art festivals and more. We talk about the age old question what is a style for an artists and how to interact with potential collectors. After a little art break where your boy JBarber had to get into show mode we are back in these art streets bringing you the best in Black art. It’s the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 203 topics include:50 years in the art gamephases in an art careercreating with no limitswhat is a style?doing outdoor festivalsthe business of arthow to deal with galleriesthe creative processLaShun Beal, contemporary, figurative artist, born January 28, 1962, has dedicated his career to perfecting his art. He is a native of Detroit who now resides in the Houston area.He challenges and expresses himself through many mediums. The ground surfaces and canvases that he uses have their own distinctive character and matchless capacity which gives voice to his work and complements his unique style.After mastering the technical subtleties of different mediums and subject matters, Beal is content with the spirit that drives him to create a particular work of art; and, the evolution of his progress which is exemplified in his creations.He has done extensive traveling throughout Europe, South America and the Far East which has afforded him the opportunity to witness other cultures which is reflected in his art. Beal states, “As an artist, I must be free to choose what I do. I enjoy the process of creating with no limits. That is my vision . . . to let the viewer experience the depth of my range as an artist from their own perspective”.He translates his creativity into imagery while simultaneously masterfully using the mediums of acrylic paint, clay, oil pastels and graphite in his work.  See more: LaShun Beal’s website + LaShun Beal IG @lashunbealFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudio

Ceramicist, Malene Barnett, returns to the Noize! We learned all about her amazing book Crafted Kinship and now we learn all about her artistic practice. From designing rugs to ceramics walls Malene’s curiosity and passion has pushed her in new directions. After discovering her love for hand building clay she has been on a journey to learn the craft and make work in all forms. We talk about her ceramic murals, how residencies helped her learn about ceramics, being a part of a community of artists, and the structure she uses to keep her on track in the studio. Malene has some great insights in to clay and how it connects her to her ancestors. More of that good art talk that you love on the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 202 topics include:Crafted Kinship world tourworking in clayfinding residencies to study clay being a part of the ceramics communitybeing objective about your worksturcture and discipline in art practiceceramic muralstraveling to Ghana for research Malene Djenaba Barnett is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist, textile surface designer, and community builder. She earned her MFA in ceramics from the Tyler School of Art and Architecture and undergraduate degrees in fashion illustration and textile surface design from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Malene received a Fulbright Award to travel to Jamaica in 2022–23 as the visiting artist at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Kingston. Malene’s art reflects her African Caribbean heritage, building on her ancestral legacy of mark-making as a visual identity, and has been exhibited at galleries and museums throughout the United States, including the Mindy Solomon Gallery in Miami, the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling in New York City, the African American Museum of Dallas, and Temple Contemporary in Philadelphia. Malene’s art and design work has appeared in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Galerie, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest, Departures, and Interior Design. In addition, Malene hosts lectures on advocating for African Caribbean ceramic traditions and has participated in residencies at Anderson Ranch Arts Center, Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts, Greenwich House Pottery, Judson Studios, the Hambidge Center, and Haystack Mountain School of Crafts. In 2024, Malene released her first book, “Crafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practice of Contemporary Black Caribbean Makers” (Hachette), which includes interviews with over 60 artists of Caribbean heritage, taking readers on an important journey through the world of Black Caribbean creativity. This groundbreaking collection is the first to feature Caribbean makers’ intimate stories of their artmaking processes, and how their countries of origin—the “land” —influences and informs how and what they create. See more: Malene Barnett website + Malene Barnett IG @malene.barnettFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

As things change around you it is important to stay ture to you passion and your calling. Its the only way to keep progressing toward your goals. Our guests today are George and Esohe Galbreath who know a little something about change lately. They are back to tell us all about their new event, Artful ATL. Saturday, June 7 at the Atlanta Contemporary. They tell us about the 30 plus artist being featured as well as the lessons they have learned from doing successful art event in the city for over a decade. We talk about building community, the new generation of artists working now, and how we pass the legacy on to other people. Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 201 topics include:ArtfulAtl opening June 7 at the Atlanta Contemporarychanging and growing in the Atlanta art communitylessons learned for doing art events for over 10 yearsa new generation of artistscontinuing events around building communityappreciating the momentsbeing resilient in 2025Sohé Solutions imagines and executes events and exhibits that promote and support the creative community. Our co-founded annual art summer social, ARTiculate ATL, in ten years has featured over 200 local artists with over $300K generated in sales. We are equally proud of our curation of New Georgia Project’s politically themed exhibit Politi-Art featuring women of color artists as well as the Many Rivers to Cross Music and Arts Festival dedicated to racial and social justice. Our goal for our curated experiences is to continue to amplify the voices of emerging artists and include them in rooms that they may usually be excluded from. See more: Sohe Solutions website + Artful Atl IG @creatingfreedomnowFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

Everywhere you go you’ll find artists in community. The Atlanta community has supported and produced some incredible artists like today’s guest, Charity Hamidullah. You can see her murals all over the city, her tattoos all of the people and her canvases all over exhibition walls. Charity talks about switching mediums, the artists that inspire her to grow, and how she takes advantage of all the residency opportunities she’s had so far. It’s more of that good art talk we love on the Noize. Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 199 topics include:switching from tattoos to canvaslearning how to drawgetting into muralsbeing fearless in your art practicehow public art changes spaceexploring mixed mediabeing inspired by other artistsgetting the most out of residencies6 week residency in PortugalCharity Hamidullah is a multi-disciplinary artist from Rochester, New York currently creating in Atlanta, Georgia.  Through the exploration of daily life as well as environments; Hamidullah utilizes the power of art to dive deeper into her purpose and connect with others.By way of creativity, Charity embraces her vibrant cultural differences and upbringing to create visual narratives that many can relate to.  Her colorful pallets are full of emotion, and life; symbolic of the diversity which co-exist in her story.  From powerful abstract lines to impactful imagery, Charity unveils chapters of growth, self-discovery and empowerment.From viewing pieces, it is undeniable that Hamidullah truly travels through her art as she examines different techniques, canvases and mediums.  But, no matter the style or approach; it is always made with love and the intention to inspire. See more: Charity Hamidullah website + Charity Hamidullah IG @creatingfreedomnowFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

Artists know how much of a grind it is to be an artist. So when we see artists exploring and evolving like today’s guest Shanneil Clarke we can appreciate the amount of effort that goes into it. Shanneil is out in these art streets, doing shows and building an audience with paintings featuring his unique Black figures. We talk about the essence of his style, the neck pieces, the gold, etc. and the inspiration behind his work. Shanneil talks about his Jamaican roots, how he vibes with collectors and the collab project he did recently with your boy, JBarber. Great incite into a young artist you can get follow on his journey. Right here on the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 198 topics include:grinding in the art streetssymbolism of hairbreaking down Shanneil’s style: neck pieces, gold, backgroundslife experiences living in Jamaicainfluence of Black cartoon characters in Shanneil’s artcollaborative prints with JBarberexploring materialsconnecting with collectorsShanneil Clarke artist statement:Art has always been my ultimate form of self-expression, a passion that has fueled me throughout my life. Born in Montego Bay, Jamaica, I spent my youth there before migrating to Pennsylvania in 2000. It was in the vibrant artistic environment of Philadelphia that I found inspiration in street art and historical murals. My art journey began during my time at Springfield High School, where I explored multiple mediums and discovered the joy of creating through various projects. After a brief hiatus, I rediscovered my love for art in 2008, particularly using oil-based medium, which reignited my creative energy. Each body of my work draws inspiration from both history and everyday experiences, crafted to evoke subjective interpretations in the viewer. I firmly believe that art is universal and shaped by each individual's life journey. As an introspective figurative artist, I incorporate natural motifs and floral fabric patterns to express communication and determination in the figures' pursuit of a better life. Each stroke of paint exudes boldness, confidence, and strength, aiming to inspire those who encounter my art. I draw inspiration from a multitude of artists, including Dali, Kevin Williams, Charly Palmer, David Hockney, Basquiat, and Amy Sherald, while also embracing techniques from different eras, like gold leaf and textures. Since moving to Atlanta, Georgia, in 2018, I have become actively engaged in the local art community, showcasing my work in various galleries, such as Mint Gallery and Future Dead Artist Gallery. Notably, in 2022, I was featured in an Exhibition sponsored by Amazon Prime during Art Basel Miami. My ultimate goal is to touch hearts and minds with my art, leaving a lasting positive impression on fellow art enthusiasts and inspiring others to express their own passion and creativity. See more: Shanneil Clarke IG @artbys.clarkeFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

Today we shine the light on our Caribbean brothers and sisters with Malene Barnett and her amazing book Crafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practices of Contemporary Black Caribbean Makers. Melene talks about her heritage and how this incredible book came together. More than 60 artists are featured included some Studio Noize Alumni like April Bey. Malene talks about the connections between Caribbean artists in the diaspora, experimenting with materials, and what it means to be rooted to a place. It’s more of that good art talk that we love right here on the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 197 topics include:Crafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practices of Contemporary Black Caribbean Makershighlighting Caribbean artists in the diasporagrowing up with parents from the Caribbeanexperimental materials land, climate and sustainability as a themepride in your homelandsocial constructs around artistic disciplinesceramics in the CaribbeanMalene Djenaba Barnett is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist, textile surface designer, and community builder. She earned her MFA in ceramics from the Tyler School of Art and Architecture and undergraduate degrees in fashion illustration and textile surface design from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Malene received a Fulbright Award to travel to Jamaica in 2022–23 as the visiting artist at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Kingston.Malene’s art reflects her African Caribbean heritage, building on her ancestral legacy of mark-making as a visual identity, and has been exhibited at galleries and museums throughout the United States, including the Mindy Solomon Gallery in Miami, the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling in New York City, the African American Museum of Dallas, and Temple Contemporary in Philadelphia. Malene’s art and design work has appeared in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Galerie, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest, Departures, and Interior Design. In addition, Malene hosts lectures on advocating for African Caribbean ceramic traditions and has participated in residencies at Anderson Ranch Arts Center, Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts, Greenwich House Pottery, Judson Studios, the Hambidge Center, and Haystack Mountain School of Crafts. In 2024, Malene released her first book, “Crafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practice of Contemporary Black Caribbean Makers” (Hachette), which includes interviews with over 60 artists of Caribbean heritage, taking readers on an important journey through the world of Black Caribbean creativity. This groundbreaking collection is the first to feature Caribbean makers’ intimate stories of their artmaking processes, and how their countries of origin—the “land” —influences and informs how and what they create.Malene is also the founder of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, which supports independent Black makers globally. When she’s not traveling the world researching Black diasporic aesthetics, Malene resides in Brooklyn, New York.See more: Malene Barnett website + Malene Barnett IG @malene.barnettFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

Ariel Dannielle comes back home to the Studio Noize podcast! We been following Ariel since she came on the single digit episodes of the Noize and we love how she has grown as an artist. If you’ve seen her work you know about her wonderful use of color, her complex compositions and her love of all things girly. She talks about her adventures in these art streets from LA to New York to Chicago and back to Atlanta. We get into her approach to painting and capturing moments, her obsession with painting food, her process of capturing these moments of womanhood/girlhood in her paintings. Its more of that good art talk that you love with one of our favorites. Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 196 topics include:working on solo exhibitionsFeels Like Glitter show at UTA Atlantabeing obsessed with painting foodcapturing moments with friendsartistic influencesusing yourself as referencemaking in different waysexperiencing a residency in Moroccostudio space in Atlantarepresenting womanhood and girlhood in artAriel Dannielle (b. 1991) is an African-American painter born and raised in Atlanta, GA. She graduated from University of West Georgia, where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Drawing directly from her life, Ariel creates large-scale paintings that depict the daily experiences of young Black women through her personal and playful lens. She believes in the importance of her artwork to provide a look into Black girlhood/womanhood that can be represented and understood. This acrylic archive has enabled her to explore aspects of the mundane, human vulnerability and sexuality. Influenced by Kerry James Marshall and Mickalene Thomas, Dannielle focuses on developing personal narratives within her portraits that challenge gender and racial stereotypes. By placing herself in the paintings, Dannielle welcomes the viewers to also participate in a process of introspection.Ariel’s work has been showcased at the Venice Biennale 2024, California African American Museum, Monique Meloche Gallery, Soco Gallery, UTA Atlanta, Harvey B. Gantt Museum, Mint ATL, The Goat Farm, ZuCot Gallery, Dalton Gallery, Trio Contemporary Art Gallery, Sheetcake Gallery, and Perez Museum Miami. She was MOCA GA Working Artist Fellow of 2019-20 and an Artadia 2018 finalist. She also showcased her first mural with Living Walls x Adult Swim in Atlanta, Georgia in 2022. See more: Ariel Dannielle website + Ariel Dannielle IG @byaridannielleFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

New Year, New season of Studio Noize! Your boy JBarber went to see Giants at the High Museum of Art and he has some thoughts. The exhibition featured art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beats and Alicia Keys. There are so many conversations to be had coming out of the show. There’s wealth and celebrity, there’s propaganda, and there’s phenomenal, awe inspiring art. We owe it to them and their efforts to give a good honest critique of the whole endeavor. The same way we examine a show like Afro Atlantic Histories we should examine the good and bad about Giants. A great way to blast into the new year! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 194 topics include:Giants at the High Museum of Art in Atlantacelebrity and wealth in articonographythe who’s who of Black artKehinde Wiley’s 30ft paintingBarkley Hendrickpropaganda in exhibitionsAbout Giants:Musicians, songwriters, and producers Swizz Beatz (Kasseem Dean) and Alicia Keys have stood as giants in the global cultural landscape for decades. As collectors, the Deans have lived their ethos of “artists supporting artists,” acquiring a world-class collection of paintings, photographs, and sculptures by diverse, multigenerational artists.The exhibition illuminates the renown and impact of legendary and canon-expanding artists. Preeminent “giants” such as Barkley L. Hendricks, Esther Mahlangu, and Gordon Parks push the boundaries of what can be seen on canvas and in photography while building a foundation for today’s Black creatives. Contemporary artists like Hank Willis Thomas and Qualeasha Wood use materials like textiles, steel, and beads to celebrate Blackness and critique society, while mesmerizing compositions from Deana Lawson and Mickalene Thomas challenge and add nuance to perceptions of Blackness. Embodying the exhibition’s “giant” ethos, the paintings by Amy Sherald and Titus Kaphar command attention through striking monumentality. Together, these works bring to the fore many facets of the term giants and reflect the spirit of the Deans, whose creative lives infuse the exhibition. See more: Giants exhibition at the High MuseumFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

We back! It’s been a crazy few weeks for your boy JBarber. I had extensive water damage to my house and had to shut down my studio for a full renovation. My studio is in shambles! It makes me think of two things. One, the people out in western NC that were devastated by the recent hurricane. The River Arts District was completely underwater for days. We have to continue to support them in any way that we can. Two, I can’t help be remember the amazing Legacy Print Weekend at Delita Martin’s studio hanging out with some of the best printmakers in the world. Today we got Rabea Ballin and Ann Johnson on the podcast recorded during our fun in Houston. We talked about experimenting in the studio, insight into your friends’ art process, taking classes at Anderson Ranch and much more. We are forgetting about our big studio problems for a little while and getting back to that good art talk we love. Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 194 topics include:Legacy Weekend at Delita Martin’s studio how the ROUX Collective worksexperimenting with colleaguesCan you run leaves through a letterpress?group critiquing with peerstaking Mickalene Thomas’ class at Anderson Ranchcontinuing education for artistsseeing artists workRabea Ballinb. deutschland. louisiana. JAH. germany. louisiana. violin. kurtis blow. mexico. sax. high school. native tongues. art school. colorado. louisiana. college. job. first love. broken heart. spanish. paris. graphic design. italy. rebirth. painting. mrc. houston. mfa. houston 7. gallery. new york. solo exhibition. jeep. professor. 3rd ward. miami basel. zula. roux. afrikaans. stir. brooklyn. bas. suga. everything records. massachusetts review. gallery director. professorship.lief.round 41. netherlands.spain. germany. south africa. mended heart. harvey. biennial. artadia. department chair. cuba. camh. 2020. public art. loss. mfah. mexico city.AnnJohnsonAnn is a graduate of Prairie View A&M University in Texas, (where she now teaches) and received a BS in Home Economics.   She has also received an MA in Humanities from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, as well as an MFA from The Academy of Art University, in San Francisco with a concentration in printmaking.  Primarily an interdisciplinary artist, Johnson’s passion for exploring issues particularly in the Black community has led her to create series’ of works that are evocative and engaging. Her series Converse: Real Talk has been exhibited at Women and Their Work in Austin, TX, The Kansas City Art Institute, and The Community Folk Art Center in Syracuse, NY.  She has been acknowledged as an “Artist to Watch” by the International Review of African American Art, and is a member of the Bearden 100 (honoring artist Romare Bearden). She is co-founder of the organization PrintMatters and PrintHouston and is a member of the ROUX Collective.   See more: Rabea Ballin website + Rabea Ballin IG @rballin + Ann Johnson website + Ann Johnson IG @solesisterart Follow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

A couple of weeks ago a group of super talented printmakers got to together in Houston at the studio of the one and only Delita Martin. We talking Delita, Chloe Alexander, Anne Johnson, Rabea Ballin, Shanna Strauss, Jess Sabogal, Rashaun Rucker and Steve Prince who couldn’t make it. Even your boy JBarber slid in there some how. The magic of the moment inspired us to create a new printmaking collective called the Legacy Print Council. Of course JBarber pulled out the mics to document such a momentous occasion. Today we got Delita Martin and Chloe Alexander talking about how this all came together and the value of sharing with your peers. Followed by Dr. Kheli Willetts who came by the studio to visit and ended up making a print herself. Kheli talks about being inspired to make a print, the time she spent with Elizabeth Catlett and her observation about the event. It’s just a little taste of that good art talk from Legacy Weekend with the crew. Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 193 topics include:how the Legacy Weekend came togetherenergy in the print studiosharing techniques with your peerscontinuing to learn as your career growscreating a collaborative portfolioDr Kheli Willetts jumping into printing againDr Kheli Willetts spending time with Elizabeth Catlettthe context of Legacy WeekendDelita Martin is an artist currently based in Huffman, Texas. She received a BFA in drawing from Texas Southern University and an MFA in printmaking from Purdue University. Formerly a member of the fine arts faculty at UA Little Rock in Arkansas, Martin currently works as a full-time artist in her studio, Black Box Press. Martin’s work has been exhibited both nationally and internationally. Most recently Martin’s work was included in the State of the Arts: Discovering American Art Now, an exhibition that included 101 artists from around the United States. Her work is in numerous portfolios and collections.Chloe Alexander is a printmaker who works out of Atlanta, Georgia. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2010 and an M.Ed. in 2014, both from Georgia State University. Alexander is a national and international exhibiting artist who has shown work in institutions such as the International Print Center in New York, the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair in London, and the Kai Lin Art Gallery in Atlanta. Dr. Kheli Willetts is Principal and Founder of Dira Professional Development. Prior to starting her own firm, Dr. Willetts was Director of Professional Development at Mid-America Arts Alliance (MAAA) small to midsize arts and cultural organizations as well as practicing artists. See more: Delita Martin website + Delita Martin IG @blackboxpress + Chloe Alexander website + Chloe Alexander IG @thehaplessprintmaker + Dr Kheli Willetts websiteFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

Artists should be comfortable blazing their own paths. Even if it take you outside the norms of Black figuration and makes people look at you funny. Today’s guest, Anthony Burks Sr., knows all about that. As a Black artist using animals as his main subjects he has stories of people that didn’t want his work at first but the beautiful compositions, the masterful drawing and the spirit that he puts into the work is undeniable. Anthony talks about his animals, his creative drive, how he approaches his business and survives as an artist. It’s a wide ranging art conversation for yall today. We know you like that good art talk right here on the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 192 topics include:the love of drawingstaying in your lane as an artistpainting animals as a Black artistturning his home into a galleryhandling commissionsZero Empty Spaces art studio and collectiveusing social media to get clientshow to get support at a fundraiserthe art hustle in FloridaAnthony Burks, a native Floridian, is a conceptual fine and commercial artist. He works in numerous forms of media including charcoal, pen & ink, pastels, watercolor, and color pencil. The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale graduate has won awards and contests including Best of Show in several different art shows. He has worked and collaborated with numerous companies and organizations over the years through his 30-year company with his wife, Trina Slade-Burks, ATB Fine ArtGroup Inc. (ATB).Anthony has exhibited his artwork at various galleries, museums, and events. He also utilizes his skills to encourage artistic youth and adults to further pursue their own creative talents and to help promote the arts. He has co-curated varies exhibitions including Continuum PB Arts Fair, Collaboration: African Diaspora Exhibition, Karibu and Boys II Men Art Expo just to name a few. These exhibitions have provided opportunities for emerging, mid-career and established artists and have exposed them to collectors who may not have had the opportunity otherwise.Over the last 20 years, he has also provided opportunities through arts education and artistic techniques to develop artistic skills in drawing and art appreciation. See more: Anthony Burks Sr. website + Anthony Burks Sr. IG @ampburksFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

Mint Gallery in Atlanta has closed its doors, suddenly and sloppily. How could this happen to such a well known, well used space? Studio Noize has recorded episodes there. Your boy JBarber had his thesis show there. There was a history and reputation to the gallery. Today we bring back Jasmine Nicole Williams, aka Jiggy Jas, back for an emergency episode of Studio Noize. We unload our thoughts on the closing of Mint and how poorly it was all handled. We discuss the precarious nature of being an artist and how devastating it can be to have your life and livelihood threatened by bad business. We talk about the changing landscape of arts funding, the need for community and the courage it takes to advocate for yourself and your fellow artists. Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 191 topics include:the chaos of Mint Gallery closingnon-profit arts fundinghow poor leadership effects working artistsbeing transparentthe dream of having a studiowhat creates culturewhat comes from the chaosJasmine Nicole Williams is a Black American visual artist and organizer from Atlanta, GA. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Art in Printmaking from the University of West Georgia in 2017. Her work explores her southern, black, and femme identities through printmaking and murals to inspire people to dive deeper into their humanity.Influenced by the work of artists like Elizabeth Catlett and Emory Douglas, Jasmine believes in the transformative power of portraiture, print, and public art. She understands the role of art and the need for that art to be accessible to the people as a tool to advance the working-class struggle. With a deep interest in craft and process, Jasmine makes dignified work that reflects and relates to everyday people and injects them with a spirit of optimism toward the future.Since receiving her BFA, Jasmine’s work has been showcased at Prizm Art Fair, Perez Museum Miami, ZuCot Gallery, Eyedrum, MINT Gallery, and Echo Contemporary. She has received residencies from Hambidge and Midtown Alliance. She was awarded grants from RedBull, Sprite, WISH ATL, and Dream Warriors Foundation and fellowships from Southern Graphics Council International and TILA Studios. She has worked with [adult swim] and Nike. Currently, Jasmine is the 2023 recipient of the Living Walls Abroad Fellowship. Jasmine continues her practice in Atlanta, GA.See more: Rough Draft Atlanta: MINT Gallery abruptly closes its doors at MET Atlanta + AJC: Mint gallery closed suddenly, leaving artists scrambling and unhappy + Jasmine Williams website + Jasmine Williams IG @jn.ooomamiFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

Pittsburgh-based art historian and curator, Kilolo Luckett joins the Studio Noize fam today! Its always exciting to have dynamic, interesting women on the show because they have so much to offer. Kilolo has created an experimental, contemporary art platform with Alma Lewis and still works as an independent curator with artists like Stephen Towns, Amani Lewis and Thaddeus Mosley. She talks about building connections with artists that she curates, the importance or reading for artists and creating Alma Lewis as a place where artists can grow in their practice. Kilolo shares what she sees as the job of a curator and how to created a culture that supports artists in every way. Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 190 topics include:building a connection to artistswhat an artist readsadvocating for artistswhat a curator doesthe importance of narratives in artcreating Alma Lewis art culture supporting artists during a residencyKilolo Luckett bio:Kilolo Luckett is a Pittsburgh-based art historian and curator. With more than twenty-five years of experience in arts administration and cultural production, she is committed to elevating the voices of underrepresented visual artists, especially women, and Black and Brown artists.Luckett is Founding Executive Director and Chief Curator of ALMA | LEWIS (named after abstract artists Alma Thomas and Norman Lewis), an experimental, contemporary art platform for critical thinking, constructive dialogue, and creative expression dedicated to Black culture.Among the many exhibitions to her credit are Familiar Boundaries. Infinite Possibilities (2018), Resurgence – Rise Again:  The Art of Ben Jones (2019), I Came by Boat So Meet Me at the Beach by Ayana Evans and Tsedaye Makonnen (2020), Vanishing Black Bars & Lounges: Photographs by L. Kasimu Harris (2020), and Dominic Chambers:  Like the Shapes of Clouds on Water (2020) at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center; Amani Lewis: Reimagining Care (2021) and Lizania Cruz: Performing Inquiry (2022) at ALMA | LEWIS; Stephen Towns:  Declaration & Resistance (2022), which premiered at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art and travels to Boise Art Museum in Boise, Idaho, and Reynolda House Museum of American Art in Winston-Salem, North Carolina (2023); and Luckett co-curated SLAY: Artemisia Gentileschi & Kehinde Wiley (2022) at The Frick Pittsburgh.She has curated exhibitions by national and international artists such as Peju Alatise, Martha Jackson Jarvis, Thaddeus Mosley, Tajh Rust, Devan Shimoyama, and Shikeith. She served as an Art Commissioner for the City of Pittsburgh’s Art Commission for twelve years.  Luckett has held positions as Curator of Meta Pittsburgh’s Open Arts, Consulting Curator of Visual Arts at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, Director of Development at The Andy Warhol Museum, and Curatorial Assistant at Wood Street Galleries, where she helped organize shows that included Xu Bing, Louise Bourgeois, Larry Bell, Catherine Opie, Nam June Paik, and Tim Rollins + K.O.S.See more: Alma Lewis website + Kilolo Luckett’s IG @kilololuckettFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

We are talking about collecting today on the Noize! We got attorney and art collector Nick Bedford. You might catch Nick in Miami at Art Basel, flying worldwide to check out all the shows, or in the studio with your favorite artists. Nick talks about the value of art, following artists as they grow, and getting into the politics behind collecting. Nick shines a light on what he values in purchasing, which includes the sketches and preliminary drawings. It’s a talk about the other side of the art business from a person actively supporting and acquiring work. Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 189 topics include:reasons to collectvalue in artcollecting sketches and preliminary workswhat makes a great artisthow success changes artists and collectingfollowing artists as they growrecent treasures in the collectiongatekeeping by museums and galleriesNick Bedford bio:Nicholas Bedford is a highly accomplished, leveraging his extensive legal expertise to provide exceptional defense for prominent corporate entities, municipalities, and trucking companies across the nation. Among his esteemed clientele are renowned organizations like National Indemnity Company, The Kroger Co., American Family Insurance, Grady Memorial Hospital, The Home Depot, Inc., The City of Atlanta, and some of the nation’s biggest corporate citizens. With over a decade of experience, Nicholas has consistently demonstrated his prowess in handling complex legal matters.Beyond his legal achievements, Nicholas is deeply committed to his community and passionate about promoting artistic advocacy. He serves as a Board Member of Georgia Lawyers for the Arts and is the visionary Founder of the Artist Making a Difference Mural Program. Through this innovative initiative, Nicholas has spearheaded impactful murals and initiated programs for philanthropic causes, including the Ronald McDonald House, the Atlanta Missions, Allgood Elementary School, and the Jesse Draper Boys & Girls School.See more: Nick Bedford’s IG @nick_bedFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

The 2024 Florida Prize exhibition at the Orland Museum of Art introduced your boy, JBarber, to 10 fantastic artists in the state of Florida. We got the People’s Choice Award winner from that show, Njeri Kinuthia, on the Noize today. Her work is centered around her experiences growing up in Kenya and the ways she wrestles with culture, religion and social norms. Njeri talks about her love of drawing, her complex relationship with religion, and the ways her art helps her build a sense of self. We go through the details of some of Njeri’s amazing work in the show including Njeri the Great, Nyumba, and Smothered II. Plus some stories about Njeri being a pastor and throwing shade with fabrics. Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 188 topics include:coming to New York from Kenyafinding freedom in the clothingwrestling with cultural norms in artthe importance of drawingfemale oppression 2024 Florida PrizeNjeri Kinuthia bio:Njeri Kinuthia was born and raised in Kenya. She received her bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design from Machakos University, Kenya. Njeri moved to the U.S. in 2021 to pursue her MFA at the University of Central Florida, funded by the Provost's Fellowship Award. Her artistic merit has been recognized with awards, including the 2024 Florida Prize in Contemporary Art People’s Choice Award, the 2024 University of Central Florida Outstanding Graduate Creative Research, the 2023 Éclat Law Prize, the 2023 United Arts Public Art Award, the 2023 Innovation in Arts Award, among others. Njeri has exhibited her work in various shows and galleries, including the ongoing Florida Prize at the Orlando Museum of Art, and a solo exhibition at Snap! Gallery in Orlando. She has also showcased her art in international settings, including Norway. Njeri is also an Art Educator teaching at the University of Central Florida. Her work explores themes of self-reflection, feminism, and the suppression of women perpetuated by cultural and societal norms. Njeri has also shared her insights through artist talks and interviews, further contributing to the discourse on the role of art in society. See more: Njeri Kinuthia website + Njeri Kinuthia’s IG @njeri_artistarFollow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast