Blaqk House Collections' pop-up exhibit an inclusive place for artists to display work
For Dominic Newsome, painting is calming.
A Maryland native who is incarcerated in the state prison in Indiana County creates art to calm his soul.
“My artwork helps to free my mind of the chaos around me, so I tend to draw historical, culture and religious, also fantasy,” he wrote as an artist’s statement for the upcoming pop-up show at Blaqk House Collections, a gallery on First Avenue in Downtown Pittsburgh. “I’ve been able to teach myself over the years, and I believe it’s the best thing that could’ve happened to me.”
Proceeds from the sale of Newsome’s paintings will be given to him to buy more art supplies.
His work will be showcased as part of 20 artists in an exhibit that opens Saturday with an event from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. It runs until June.
Newsome began drawing with pen on paper and used wet tissues to create other shades.
He’s spent nearly 30 years in prison, many of those in solitary confinement.
“We really want to do our part to help artists like Dominic,” said Cynthia Kenderson, of the Hill District, who co-owns the gallery with business partner Nicky Jo Dawson. “His work is powerful. I think painting helps with his sanity.
“This gallery is here to help people who are incarcerated, those who are homeless, it’s here for everyone.”
Newsome’s attorney, Hal Engel, of Maryland helped get his client out of solitary confinement and got in touch with Kenderson. One of Newsome’s painting is of political activist Harriet Tubman. It’s done with acrylics.
It was one of the many pieces being displayed on the walls by Dawson, who said the art often dictates the placement.
“I let the spirit guide me,” said Dawson, of Beechview. “Often times the art jumps into the space. I try to place similar art works together. I have an eye for where to place the art. I can just see where everything should go.”
She pointed out the feature wall, which this month is for showcasing female artists for Women’s History Month.
Dawson and Kenderson, who is doing a Nafasi on Centre Artist Residency in the Hill District, are collaborating with Emerald City co-working space on Smithfield Street, Downtown to display some artwork as well as in Mayor Ed Gainey’s office. They plan to have artists teach classes this summer as the space continues to evolve.
The rainbow sign signifies they created the space to be diverse and inclusive.
The openness was attractive to Marlon Gist of Aliquippa. He will have several pieces in the show, including one of several animals.
“I strive to be the best artist in the world,” Gist said. “Creating art makes me feel good. Colored artists are often overlooked.
“This gallery is welcoming.”
JoAnne Klimovich Harrop is a TribLive reporter covering the region's diverse culinary scene and unique homes. She writes features about interesting people. The Edward R. Murrow award-winning journalist began her career as a sports reporter. She has been with the Trib for 26 years and is the author of "A Daughter's Promise." She can be reached at jharrop@triblive.com.
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