Meet this week's guest editor, Ron Stokes, a true creative with a story that weaves through the tapestry of various cities. Born in the heart of Washington, D.C., he moved to the sunny Bay Area of California during his formative years. For the past decade, he's called Richmond, Virginia, his home.
What sets Ron apart is his remarkable journey as a self-taught street artist who has blended his unique vision with abstract art. He's not just a painter; he's a storyteller of colors and patterns. With every brushstroke, he channels his emotions, thoughts, and the sparks of inspiration in the moment, transcending the need for words. He's left his mark on both grand cityscapes and intimate corners, all while giving back to charities and foundations. To Ron, his art is a bridge connecting the urban landscape to the world of creativity.
Now, Ron is here to share his passion projects and the hidden gems of Richmond that have captured his heart.
Take it away, Ron...
Race in Richmond
Race in Richmond is a compelling interactive exhibit that delves into race and identity through the power of photography, videography, art, and storytelling. Our exhibit offers a fresh perspective on Richmond, shedding light on the intersections of racial, ethnic, sexual, and generational identities, which shape our individual and collective experiences.
Our aim is to foster awareness, ignite meaningful dialogue, and promote understanding as we strive for a community defined by love and inclusivity.
Presented by Ron Stokes in collaboration with Ashley Williams of The Well Collective and Saira Rao of Race2Dinner, this captivating exhibit opens its doors to the public on Friday, November 3rd, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at The Well Collective. Join us on this transformative journey.
Urban Hang Suite (UHS) is one of Richmond’s ultimate coffee havens, lovingly owned by the inimitable Kelli Lemon. This is more than just a coffee shop; it's a hub for the best local brews, teas, and culinary delights.
Step inside and savor the rich flavors while making connections with fellow professionals, both fresh faces and seasoned experts. The Urban Hang Suite stands tall as a community cornerstone, pulsating with creativity and culture. Kelli proudly showcases local artists every other month, curated by The Art Seen.
Urban Hang Suite is a pillar in the community, intentional about creating a space for minority artists in a city where spaces for minority art is limited. Join us, revel in the flavors, embrace the creativity, and be part of the mission to celebrate the vibrant and diverse voices of our community.
Vitals:
Urban Hang Suite / 304 E Broad St. Richmond, Virginia 23219 / Open Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 2:00 PM
We're proud to debut our newest sponsored partner, The Read Center...
THE ART SEEN
The Art Seen is your passport to a world of creative experiences in both traditional and non-traditional settings. From art walks to pop-up exhibits, live paintings, and more, we offer a diverse array of events throughout the year. Our primary focus is to spotlight the talents of minority artists in the Richmond community.
As an established minority artist myself, The Art Seen was born out of a personal struggle to find spaces to showcase my own art. I created The Art Seen to address this challenge, to offer a platform for fellow minority artists to share their truths and stories. Additionally, we provide a residency program for emerging artists, offering a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside established artists, culminating in the chance to showcase their work at various Art Seen events throughout the city.
