Cannavita Celebrates Two Years of Cannabis, Culture, and Connection

Cannavita Celebrates Two Years of Culture, Connection, and Community in Astoria

In just two years, Cannavita has established itself as far more than a cannabis dispensary in Astoria. It has become a trusted neighborhood space where education meets culture and where community is always at the center. As Cannavita celebrates its two year anniversary, the milestone reflects not only business growth, but the strengthening of relationships, creativity, and shared experiences throughout Queens.

Rooted in Astoria From the Beginning

From day one, Cannavita was built with intention. Rooted in Astoria, the dispensary set out to create an environment that feels approachable and welcoming for everyone, from first time cannabis consumers to seasoned enthusiasts. Education has always been a core pillar. The team prioritizes clear guidance, thoughtful product curation, and open conversation so customers feel informed and comfortable.

Accessibility is not just about products. It is about atmosphere. Cannavita has worked to create a space where neighbors feel at ease asking questions, exploring options, and engaging in dialogue without judgment. That sense of comfort has helped transform the dispensary into a true community fixture.

More Than Retail

What distinguishes Cannavita is its commitment to going beyond transactions. The space has evolved into a cultural hub where creativity and connection thrive. Through curated events and gatherings, Cannavita brings together artists, performers, entrepreneurs, and local residents under one roof.

These experiences are designed to reflect the identity of Astoria itself. The neighborhood is known for its diversity, entrepreneurial spirit, and artistic energy. Cannavita embraces that spirit by creating opportunities for collaboration and celebration that feel authentic to the borough.

Celebrating Two Years With Intention

The February 11 anniversary celebration, taking place from 7 PM to 10 PM, honors Cannavita’s journey in a way that mirrors its values. Produced in collaboration with creative agency OVONO, the event reflects a shared commitment to intentional, culturally grounded experiences.

Guests can expect live comedy, music, visual artists creating in real time, curated bites, and an atmosphere filled with warmth and authenticity. Rather than centering solely on cannabis, the celebration reflects Cannavita’s broader vision. Cannabis complements the experience, while culture, conversation, and connection take the lead. The goal is to create a space where discovery and celebration coexist naturally.

Representing Connection and Education

Culturally, Cannavita represents connection. It is a place where curiosity about cannabis is met with supportive guidance and where education exists alongside celebration. The team understands that as the legal cannabis landscape in New York City continues to grow, trust and transparency matter more than ever.

By fostering open dialogue and thoughtful experiences, Cannavita helps normalize cannabis in a way that feels responsible and community oriented. Guests and customers alike are encouraged to ask questions, learn, and engage at their own pace.

Impact Measured in Relationships

While growth and turnout are important markers, Cannavita measures success through impact. The true achievement lies in the conversations sparked, the relationships formed, and the sense of belonging created within the space.

When guests leave an event feeling welcomed, informed, and inspired, that is success. When neighbors return not just to shop, but to connect, that is impact. Over the past two years, Cannavita has built a foundation rooted in trust and shared energy.

Looking Ahead

As Cannavita moves beyond its second anniversary, the focus remains clear. The mission is to continue strengthening community ties, supporting local creatives, and offering thoughtful, accessible cannabis experiences in Astoria.

This milestone is not simply a celebration of time passed. It is a reflection of the people who have supported the journey and a commitment to deepening those connections in the years ahead. Cannavita continues to grow as a space where cannabis, culture, and community come together with intention.

Berlin: Creating Motion Through Art and Sound

Names like Berlin or Smooth Waffle confer the world of art in a storm of vitality and potency. From Newport News, Virginia, he soon made a transition to Philadelphia, lighting up the artistic market with his unique brand of art. His work stands at a fascinating intersection of visual arts and music.

In 2006, Berlin was introduced to art due to an interest in creating beats using FL Studio. This was initially just a hobby, but later turned into a full-blown, passionate career. Moving to the city of Philadelphia in the year 2011 looked to be a defining moment as he was then suddenly surrounded by an environment rife with creativity and artistic expression- one that pushed him to develop his own sense of craft identity going back and forth between music and visual arts.

His work aims to form relationships rather than make splendid objects. Berlin uses Color Psychology to reach deep into emotions to personally resonate with the person's eye. Through paintings or touching music, he would like to see oneself reflected in the feelings and experiences of the viewer.

There have been bumps on Berlin's artistic road. The art world can be tough, especially with pressures to conform and commercialize one’s creativity. But Berlin refuses to see his vision compromised for anything. He stresses the need for one to embrace and walk their own path even when it is difficult.

Among those key moments in his career were opening for Dizzy Wright and AJ McQueen to Traveling to Art Basel to expand on visual art. Not only were these events responsible for showcasing his talent, but they also helped him build relations and evolve into an established artist. The projects of *Ultraviolet* and *Waffle Smoke* also present excellent examples of the artist's forward the fusion of art.

This also brings Berlin into recalling how big black art is and what it means in preserving the cultural legacy. The recent trip to Kemet was another reminder of how important it is to tell our stories through art and honor them. For Berlin, black art conjointly means telling our story and celebrating our heritage.

For those starting their journey in art, Berlin has simple but profound advice- search for those things that bring you joy and satisfaction, rather than looking for the satisfaction of others. Accept your process, learn from it, and never stray from your purpose.

Triumphant into the next masterpiece, Berlin is thriving as a creative force. His musk-centered art remains a tool by which he expresses his dedication and love while providing a spatial backdrop for others to project themselves. Keep a peek-out for his works and the trail he sets on; it will surely inspire your own heart and open assault.

Rosa Fortys: Portraits of Dignified Power

Rosa Fortys artwork wraps itself around you like your abuelita after a long journey home. Warm, soft, and safe. Still, the work carries a vibrating sense of power. Akin to a nuzzle from a lioness, she chooses to embrace you, yet the immense power and freedom to dominate is unmistakably evident. 

Her work gushes ancient energy that bleeds from broad strokes to specks of detail. Before meeting Rosa, her paintings left me with more questions than answers. Standing before them, I repeatedly found myself asking, who is the woman in this painting? 

A forgotten goddess? A teenager filled with angst? Rosa in some alternate universe?

Rosa might answer simply, "That's Sylvia," with a bashful grin of admiration. Sylvia, Joy, and Sage have become protagonists in Rosa's storytelling and fixtures in her healing journey. These subjects, and consequently, muses, are dancers and aerialists. Their physiques lend themselves to the unshakable confidence Rosa seeks to employ and deliver to her audience. Their striking posture and physical discipline allow for an internal transcendence through Rosa's watercolor expressions. 

Mythical or literal, each feminine presence in Rosa's work is hyper aware of her power. Whether the subject is draped elegantly over glowing orbs, peering back as if to challenge your entry into her kingdom, or fossilized in a horned statuesque gaze, proclaiming defiance toward the challenges that lie in the distance, her heroines inspire dignified power. 

“Art Is my Therapy, It’s the voice that allows me to speak in ways words could never describe” - Rosa Fortys

Rosa's brushstrokes carve away at your reality, etching a doorway into a world where women can recognize and stand in their potential. She seeks to leave her viewers and patrons with both peace and inspiration to live to the standards of their highest self. Unquestionably executed, Rosa's work "Reminds women that they are badass."

Writing by - Marquez Woods

Matthew Trujillo: Painting the Rhythm of New York

Summer brought that defining mark to the life of contemporary box pop artist Matthew Trujillo, whose stark portraiture and ambivalent narratives have begun to leave an imprint on the New York art scene. Theories will discuss some of the city's hottest exhibitions from Southampton to TriBeCa, without doubt affirming Trujillo to be an artist whose stories are at home under and beyond the auspices of New York City.

From New Mexico to New York

The origin of Trujillo's creative journey goes back to his New Mexico roots, but it was his presence in Austin, Texas, that truly put the spotlight on his transit sort. Employing his distinct merger of fashion, street aesthetics, and pop-art energy, Trujillo was able to generate a cult-like following to the extent that he secured a spot at West Chelsea Contemporary when they were organizing the Concrete to Canvas exhibition. Now that he is settled down in New York, Trujillo's narrative seems simultaneously personal and universal - a voice describing his own very experience as well as the wider urban culture of the city he now considers home.

“Find God”, 48×48, Spray paint & Acrylic on canvas, 2025

A Summer of Showcases

The season officially began in Southampton on July 11, during which Trujillo served as a featured artist at the third annual Art Affair Hamptons, curated by Eddy Bogaert. His colorful canvases were displayed alongside eclectic expressions of visual art, music, and luxury culture — the perfect stage for his style.

The momentum carried on with the Bam! Red Dot! Art Experience at One Art Space in TriBeCa, from July 18 to 20. The show presented an array of local and international talent, with Trujillo's work standing out for its commanding presence and bold immediacy. The summer was capped by NYC Stories: Art Experience (August 1–3), also at One Art Space, where Trujillo not only exhibited but also gave an art talk that shed light on the layered narratives behind his work. Both exhibits were curated by Start Shows. 

Only Time Will Tell, 68” x 72”, Spray paint and acrylic on unstretched canvas

Layers, Style, and Storytelling

Portraits with uncanny graphic clarity and emotional intensity are the focal point of Trujillo's practice. His works display three key signatures:

• Graphic Expression: Sharp faces inspired by pop art, full of city energy.

• Layered Narrative: Sullied tonal shifts that prompt the viewer to struggle for their own interpretations.

• Mixed Media Energy: A battle of acrylic and spray paint on canvas and wood, drawing inspiration from street culture, music, and fashion.

Concerning his recent shows, Trujillo wrote on his Instagram account: “This past month in New York, the story behind the work was shared… this is where the layers reveal themselves: why I create, where the work is headed, and how each piece lives within a space.”

Inspiration, 30” x 40”, Spray paint & acrylic on Canvas

"How Do You Evolve", Mixed Media On Wood Panel, 4ft x 6ft, aka “Study #13”

Cementing His Place

Trujillo's run of exhibitions in summer underlines his rise as one of New York's most compelling new voices. His art is simultaneously personal and collective-a storytelling practice that records the futile heartbeat of the city while embracing an audience to identify themselves within the layers. And with all the momentum rippling from the Hamptons down to Manhattan, Matthew Trujillo stands on the verge of something bigger: an artist shaping not only his story but that of New York visual language as well.

Amy Sherald: American Sublime — Last Glimpses, Living Presence

"First Lady Michelle Obama" By Amy Sherald

On August 10, 2025, we arrived at the Whitney among the final visitors for the last day of Amy Sherald's American Sublime Exhibition. Free to enter on Fridays and every second Sunday, this museum has become a haven for us. Bleucalf, along with Collectives, ARCHIV3, SxNoir, and All My Friends Are Artists, were there with our spirits lifted by one simple yet profound truth: seeing another Black woman command that space set us free and filled us with hope. It was a silent, loud announcement: This exhibition is open to all who choose to walk through its doors.

In a soberly beautiful way, Sherald's portraiture creates a fresh opening into Black life. Instead of dwelling on strife, she finds everyday moments of reverence. Working-class individuals, commonplace scenes, and the First Lady herself-each presence is an affirmation, equal and whole. This clarity was cemented in the argument by the gray skin, shifting the dialogue away from the topic of color to notions of shape, posture, and attitude. The viewer comes closer, not to pity but to recognize: this life, this person, is.

Amy Sherald’s portrait of Breonna Taylor declares visibility and stands against erasure. Taylor is not locked into the frozen frame of martyrdom or sculpted into the spectacle of her death; she is rendered whole, alive in presence and spirit. In her lovely blue dress, calm authority drapes over her like a halo of graciousness which, by the very fact of its existence, contradicts the violence that had taken away her life. Her unflinching gaze meets the viewer incarnate with this unshakable knowing: I am being looked at on my own terms. Sherald gave Breonna back to herself, and to us—as more than a symbol; she becomes a Black woman whose dignity cannot be tarnished, whose beauty and humanity serve as an unyielding reproach to the brutality that tried to extinguish her.

“Breonna Taylor” By Amy Sherald

“Trayvon Martin” By Amy Sherald

The portrayal of the young Trayvon Martin is more than just a painting; it claims a place in cultural defiance and ancestral respect. Through her brush, Trayvon is wrested from the dehumanizing gaze of the media and the state, restored to the sacredness of being a young Black boy with dreams, joy, and a future that was stolen. Sherald paints his blackness in an intriguing grayscale that rejects this voyeuristic hunger for Black suffering and instead places him into a special realm where his existence is unquestioned, beyond stereotype, and erasure. Hooding, once weaponized to dehumanize, is rendered sanctified by Sherald: a garment of truth and protection. Therefore, through Trayvon, Sherald makes his immurement in the continuum of Black portraiture that refuses to give him invisibility, insisting to the whole world that Black lives are mourned, remembered, honored, and forever seen.

Then, “Trans Forming Liberty”, a ten-foot painting of Arewà Basit as Lady Liberty, Basit being a trans non-binary artist. There are flowers in one hand and a torch in the other; her pose is grounded and proud. When the Smithsonian considered excluding the painting in order to avoid making political waves, Sherald refused to stay quiet. Sherald chose to pull the entire show rather than let its meaning be diluted.

That act of refusal matters. It reminds us that erasing or softening this image—a re-vision of a cherished national symbol—is itself a kind of erasure. Sherald refused the erasure. Instead, the painting broke through. It became the cover of The New Yorker, uncontained by walls or curators.

“Trans Forming Liberty” By Amy Sherald

Small Encounters and Quiet Reckonings

For us, from the Collectives' standpoint, we felt the layers of what Sherald was doing. For someone who looks like us to be shown as completely whole and unashamed, this is a claim. As we walked through those galleries, we said nothing, and our acceptance grew: yes, acceptance is possible; yes, our stories belong in these silent rooms and on these walls.

My thoughts went to Sherald’s other subjects: nondescript people in bright clothes, fishermen, neighbors, or simply unknowns. Each remains silent yet eloquent, a reminder that Black life is not one story. It is manifold, unwritten, and begs to be painted.

When Art Becomes Refuge

Sherald's singular stand against censorship whispers that courage isn't always loud. Sometimes absence can speak more powerfully than presence. With Sherald, absence becomes the message. In those galleries, every brushstroke felt like a seed. Art isn't just the art that's hung; it's the art that is carried forward. American Sublime will exist in how we imagine more inclusive portraiture, more gendered liberty, and more unfiltered humanity.

Final Reflection

That last day walking out with my group, more came with me than just the images in my mind. I carried conviction. Sherald let everyday grace speak for itself and then refused to have that grace censored. It reminded me that our presence is unapologetic and not confined to moments when others choose to see us. This in itself is resistance. We belong. And with her images, Sherald welcomes us in, whole and seen.

JJ Pinckney: “Freedom, unfiltered.”

Photography by: Bleu Pablo

JJ Pinckney's work and ethos display a swirling companionship of freedom and service. Strolling around his Crown Heights studio, Found Wonder, JJ shed light on both his capability, philosophy, and the intentionality of his imagination-fueled expressions. 

With only two years behind him as an artist, JJ has a particular advantage the classically trained do not. Most of our definitions of freedom are defined in rebellion to authority, but JJ's is pure. He isn't beholden to any rules or no-no's and, therefore, is led by exploration and instinct. JJ doesn't stagnate in magical intuition, however. He recognizes that all of the greatest greats we're incredibly studious. Even as a D1 football player, he'd watch film to develop his game. Creating his best work demands the same discipline and intention.  

Afro Samurai,

A nuanced balance of novelty and tradition finds itself in Afro Samurai, a large-scale piece where JJ employs the Dadaist technique, "Automatic Drawing," before he even knew what to call it. JJ lets the brush, crayons, spray paint, and countless other mediums lead him. Using his unconscious mind, JJ allows the painting to unearth itself through movement and energy. The "pandemic painting" was a confident and raw moment in JJ's life, and it's clear to see. 

From the unconscious mind to hyper-awareness, JJ recognizes his strength is his voice. His clear and pointed vision can deliver poignant messages of illumination. This is his greater purpose, This is the service his creative freedom leads him to.  

Our free-flowing conversation exposed his intellectual nature, not only in art history and their most significant leaders but human history. 

Smoking Walking Down Marcus Garvey Boulevard

Smoking Walking Down Marcus Garvey Boulevard depicts Marcus Garvey in a decapitated state, limbs estranged from his body living as merely a name on a street sign in so many young(and old) lives. JJ comments on the watering down of Black leaders and how their messages of strength and fortitude are twisted into near-submissive liberalism by America's brilliantly malicious PR strategy - eventually beating heroes down to patronizing and useless symbols. 

Sesame Street

The messaging starts early, as Sesame Street shows. "It's really about the miseducation that black people have to endure." The reptilian teacher seems to have just finished a lecture and is in a slack-jawed state in a state of euphoria. Its head points upward reveling in the misery of the mentally and physically flattened boy that lies on the floor. His only relief from the throws of subconscious oppression is a panel of comic books. Mirroring life, the boy's entertainment sedates what would likely be a visceral rejection of mistruths.

The Extraction of Black Genius

The culmination of JJ's depiction of a reality written to befit a falsely superior culture culminates in The Extraction of Black Genius with a klansman poking at what feels like the viewer's very own brain. The rich red drives the near rageful discontent JJ feels and fuels the choice we all have: to be one more flattened spirit drowned in mistruths like the one resting at the bottom of the painting or to, as JJ put's it, "pull up the text and read it for yourself."

Keilley Banks: Forging Community and Connection Through Art

Photography by: @jaden_rich14

Keilley Banks’ evolution as a visual artist and curator is a multifaceted story of reinvention, self-discovery, and a commitment to building community. From navigating the structures of the corporate world to embracing the fluidity of artistic expression, Banks has created a mosaic of experiences—one defined by empowerment and the creation of inclusive spaces for emerging artists.

Photography by: @jaden_rich14

From Corporate Suits to Canvas Hues
Banks’ transition into the art world was anything but conventional. Before fully immersing herself in creative work, she spent over three years in corporate public relations, including a demanding stint in financial PR. Though successful in her role, the pressures of the industry took a toll. “It burnt me out really crazy,” she admits, reflecting on the high-stakes, often hi-pace work environment.

My Sweet Opposition

Her corporate experience also reinforced the glaring issue of representation. While studying at a predominantly white institution (PWI), Banks took the initiative to establish the Black Public Relations Student Society—a response to the exclusion she encountered. “If they’re not going to give me a seat at the table, I’ll just make a new table,” say Banks. More than just a student organization, the society became a vital space for Black students to connect, access opportunities, and challenge industry norms. Its success, drawing 45 members to its inaugural meeting, underscored the essential need for spaces that prioritize inclusivity and equity.

A Moment of Reinvention
The global pause brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic provided Banks with the time and space for self-reflection. Leaving the corporate world behind, she sought a path that aligned more closely with her values and well-being. “I just decided I never wanted to be stressed out like that again,” she recalls. “I’d rather be unhappy in an artist’s way than unhappy in a corporate way.”

It was during this period of introspection that Banks initiated a new creative endeavor. “I didn’t even pick up a paintbrush until 2020,” Banks shares. What began as an intuitive process quickly developed into something deeper. “It just started happening,” she says, describing the organic emergence of her artistic practice.

Lend Me Your Hand

Art as a Movement for Connection
At the core of Banks’ work is a deep engagement with personal narratives and collective experiences. Her paintings, often centered on Black identity, serve as vessels for storytelling and emotional expression. One such piece, Lend Me Your Hand, encapsulates this ethos. “I made that during a time where I needed help so badly,” she explains. Through her art, Banks communicates both struggle and solidarity, inviting viewers into moments of introspection and connection.

Look at Me

Beyond the canvas, Banks extends her artistic vision into community-building efforts. With her new platform, All My Friends Are Artists, she curates exhibitions and programming for emerging creatives, ensuring that artistic spaces remain accessible and collaborative. “I consider myself a community curator,” she explains. “I bring people together, and I typically bring them together through art.”

Her events further illustrate this commitment. More than just social gatherings, these experiences make a lasting impression on those who attend. “It was crazy—by the end, people were telling each other their entire life stories and supporting one another,” she recalls.

Banks is not just an artist—she is a community builder creating a movement that empowers emerging artists and redefines what it means to create with purpose. As she expands her impact, one thing remains clear: her work is not just about individual success but about uplifting an entire community through the power of art.

Jessica Alazraki values the opportunity to represent her culturE

It’s a warm spring day in April. Jessica Alazraki walks into Black Wall Street Gallery in Soho, carrying two large oil paintings. Wholly unplanned but almost as if destined, she unwraps the paintings she has scheduled to get framed around the corner at Soho Fine Arts to show the gallery’s curator and owner, Dr. Ricco Wright. Immediately enamored with her immense talent and artistry, Wright offers Alazraki a show on the spot; Jessica’s solo exhibition “La Familia” opened to a warm reception and a steady stream of guests throughout the month-long showing.

A large majority of Alazraki’s work centers around families, specifically Latinx families. When asked about her prime inspiration, she replied, “It’s always about Latinx immigrants and their families.” Even using her children as references for some subjects, we see how deeply Alazraki values the opportunity to represent her culture, going internally to share the diversity of Latinx culture. “Family is where my true wealth lies; it's the foundation for my art.” 

The subjects have never changed; however, we see her use of brighter pigments in contrast to the duller backgrounds to highlight her issues. Tables symbolize family time, the members joining together in warm settings. One signature of Alazraki’s is the bright tablecloths featured in each piece. When describing the process behind creating the tablecloths, the methods evolved considerably. Starting from mixed media painting on fabric tablecloths, Alazraki went to printing the pattern on the canvas and painting over the print; her current method is painting the design without reference in an abstract form. “It lends itself to a nice composition, and it’s fascinating. But, of course, it helps to do abstract work,” she states when reflecting on her current process. 

Despite being so detailed, Alazraki approaches each work with freedom, not knowing where the brush will take her. One of her biggest thrills is jumping in and not overthinking the process of capturing the painting. Not planning ahead of time gives Alazraki the freedom to change things around. However, she says her paintings will sometimes undergo last-minute changes. 

Alazraki moves with confidence and humility for her craft. With a deep understanding of each role played in the art world, she recognizes that hers to maintain the integrity of her works. She shows up determined to tell the stories of her people on the canvas. While many eyes are on her future results, Alazraki focuses on her true love – La Familia – and art.

Troy Jones: It’s Deeper than Black

Photography by Bleu Pablo

Many Black Americans can easily go their entire lives without a strong connection to Africa. But there will always be breadcrumbs - cultural clues that live across Caribbean dishes rooted in Western African cuisine. 808s that awaken the spirit inspire ritualistic dances. Cravings for gold draped across brown skin like African Royalty. Even with these clues, it is easy to turn away from the origins of diasporic Aficans when looking back forces one to continue the dialogue around ancestral trauma. It’s hard to identify with a continent when everyone else gets a country. DNA tests don’t give you culture and the rising rhetoric around Foundational Black Americans, while undeniably prideful, often contrasts Pan-Africanist movements.

“UBUNTU”

“Your history doesn’t start with slavery.” -Troy Jones

Troy Jones' work is a return to Marcus Garvey’s Pan-Africanist spirit. The work is filled with portraits that collide direct ancestral symbols with contemporary lifestyles. Statuesque figures stand tall with pride, donning West African masks that hint at the depth beyond the trauma we are all too familiar with.  

“LV Made” shows the swirling contradictions that live within the Black experience. The figure, wrapped in jewelry, is dressed in Louis Vuitton with his hand over his heart. Jones points out the exploitative nature of brands like these, capitalizing on Black creativity. He points out our misplaced pride in consumerism - the deadfaced descendent of creativity. I heard the disappointment in his voice, uttering, “First Virgil, now they on Pharrell…why don’t we wear the Pan-African flag with the same pride?”  Even this subtle criticism still feels overtly positive. However, in this piece, it's hard to tell whether the figure even knows the mask is on his face. 

Jones reluctantly recalls times when African masks like these hung on the walls of European aristocrats. They were trophies of exoticism and conquest. Traditions reduced to knickknacks. This series of works is how Troy reclaims these birthrights. While his pieces are not as dense as the books and cultures that inform them, Jones’ works are philosophically provocative. Look deeper, and you’ll find the names of the featured masks written on the back of each canvas. Do the science, and you’ll learn each has a specific tribe, meaning, and ritual. 

Many of these traditional masks are used to speak to God. When you look beyond the stains of history, there is a world of spirituality to take pride in. There is a celestial pride Jones upholds. “Our bloodline goes back to the beginning of time…Wherever it started, it started brown.” We can see this holiness in the Renaissance-inspired gold leaf used to spotlight the figure in “I am the Black Gold of the Sun”. Troy isn’t just creating beauty, he is reminding Pan-Africans that there is more to their story. 

“I am the Black Gold of the Sun”.

After his brush with exploitative characters, Jones finds himself taking more time with his works and being more intentional and spending time with his true legacy - his family. The smiles come out when he expresses joy in allowing his granddaughter to paint and draw unhindered alongside him. Jones hopes to leave paintings behind for her to discover. To encourage pride in herself. To remind her that her history is much longer and more profound than what school might teach. It is this mission that unites the creative and familial legacy of Troy Jones.

Writing By Marquez Woods

@quez_truly

Art Hampton: Uniting Emerging Voices

More than just an art gallery, MRR Art Room inside Clubhouse Hampton has become a blend of cultures, stories, and unexplored potential: This has happened since last March. The latest exhibition, through the vision of the ever-inventive team at Art Hampton with CEO Ryan Zwick at the helm, invited a steady group of emerging artists across the globe. Each piece had not just a example of identity but was part a larger whole that told a collective story of culture, imagination, and shared humanity.

Art Hampton believes in the universal language of art and continues to push boundaries by curating experiences that are beyond geography. This show was no different. Despite different backgrounds, Artists work converged around a central theme: connection. It was through vivid color, texture, or quiet introspection that each artist offered something that felt both deeply personal and yet extremely relatable to the viewers.

It was a first for many of the participants, who had never exhibited in this capacity in this arena. Inclusion and accessibility made this moment possible--not just in terms of physical space but also mentorship, promotions, and dialogue through Art Hampton. In carving out this space, the organization has made possible the amplification and celebration of voices that are generally not heard.

The exhibition acted as a platform for discussion that advances the proposition of art as a border-dissolving instrument for community building. Visitors didn't just observe; they interacted. Sparks ignited conversations. People shared their stories. Contact information flew. In a time when division so often headlines everything, Art Hampton showed us what coming together could make happen.

The mission of Art Hampton continues to serve with this exhibition: bringing people closer with the arts. And if this exhibition is any indication, they have only just begun.

Harlem Fine Arts Show 2025: A Celebration of Black Excellence and Community

The Harlem Fine Arts Show was not just a colorful art fair; it was a fantastic celebration of the splendor, wealth, and cultural power of the African Diaspora. It had for Bleucalf Magazine the honor of being a media partner to an event that fully embodied the spirit of Black History Month-Accepting our past, celebrating our present, and creating a dynamic future through art, commerce, and conversation.

Renowned artists such as Jacob Lawrence, Leroy Campbell, Luca Goly, and Shaniqa Benitez graced the event with their groundbreaking work and artistic perspectives, further adding to the exhibit,

Upon entering the exhibition space, there was an electricity in the room filled with elegance, creativity, and intentionality. HFAS once more validated itself as a platform for these Black artists, collectors, fans, and entrepreneurs to endorse and invest in one another. The curation was phenomenal—each artwork bore silent witness to a powerful story that resonated poignantly to the audience, reminding us that our history, struggles, and victories are inflected into every stroke, every piece of statuary, and every canvas.

Panels that were informative yet captivating sparked critical debates with art, business, and community at their intersections. Some conversations focused on Black wealth and land ownership, and on the economics of art. These ideas provoked the audience to consider how resources, knowledge, and capital interact and relate to our community. HFAS was not only about celebrating Black art; it was also about calling onto the world economic power that lies within our culture and the necessity for reinvesting in ourselves.

Outside of the art, the event took form in a broader message: that the strength and potential of collective advancement translate into life. HFAS 2025 dramatically illustrated that whenever we come together—not just for appreciation, but also for economic empowerment—sustainable pathways to growth are created. The evidence cannot be denied: Black wealth, Black creativity, and Black excellence undergo a process of verification and cannot be halted in their progressive march when tended to as a united community.

 The HFAS space presented an interesting potential for establishing connections and collaborations. Artists networked with collectors; entrepreneurs intermixed with visionary thinkers; and the program ignited talks that would instigate future projects. Creativity and ambition clashed in a heart—confirming that these partnerships are pertinent to advancing and sustaining Black art and commerce.

Artist: Gerald Byrd @ Kente Royal Gallery

 HFAS 2025 essentially stood as a refreshing reminder of how far we have come and how much farther we can go. It complemented the mystique of the Black History Month celebrations, once more applying the urgency to protect, preserve, and develop our cultural legacy whilst investing in future generations of Black artists and entrepreneurs.

Our team was proud to participate in such an important event. We will continue to support those Black artists and creatives who move culture into the future. The Harlem Fine Arts Show 2025 was more than just an event; it was a movement, a clarion call, and an affirmation of the power that is alive in our community.

"Naderson Saint Pierre: Fearless Creation, Unstoppable Journey"

Photography by; @Bleupablo

It takes a different level of vision and tenacity to migrate from your comfort zone into a high risk yet adventurous life. A deep dissatisfaction with the idea of monotony, and persistent call for change. Most artists are naturally rebellious, but this one in particular, creates as if every single day of life is his last. 

Naderson Saint Pierre born in Gonaives, Haiti has such an interesting perspective when observing people. A deep thinker you’ll rarely find him speaking in a room unless he’s describing his work. He prefers watching and listening to others to better understand how we as humans interact and form relationships and build community. Based off his observations he creates works, inspired by identity, relationships, social and political issues. 

I’ve had the privilege of seeing Naderson adapt to life in New York for the past two years, and has journey most definitely has not been an easy one. But his drive has never faltered nor has his vision been obscured. In fact, with every single setback, he bounced back harder with more determination, adversity and affirmation that he was headed on the right path. 

When I first met Naderson Saint Pierre it was during a group exhibition at Basquiat’s Bottle, entitled Basquiat Lives curated by Danero Elle. The exhibition featured the works of Watson Mere Doudgy “Dew” Charmant and Naderson Saint Pierre paying homage to Basquiat, by way of three talented Haitian artists. Well curated in a black owned events venue, exhibition was accompanied with an artist talk, where we were able to hear the purpose and drive behind each individual Artist, and what motivated them to create. 

Naderson is motivated and influenced by self improvement and personal growth. His own journey with self improvement was motivated by his craft. Delving into his craft he was able to fully appreciate his life by way of the artistic therapy that painting provided him. He says: 

“As an artist, there is no greater pleasure for me than finding genuine growth and improvement in my projects. As I have grown and matured, so has my art. My priority is to create a better understanding and address the elephant in the room. Political and other social issues. As an artist, I alone cannot change society for the better, but I can only transform my own consciousness into my work to inspire others. The goal is to add a little seed of love, unity, and peace within everyone. ​“ 

“The Lady in the Hot Shower” Acrylic on Canvas, 48x48 IN 2024

His work provides a visual reminder to viewers that we are simultaneously going through this human experience together. It’s a reminder for us to look inward to find solutions to the external life problems we experience, while holding grace for each other, and for ourselves. And above all else moving in love. It made me wonder how he was able to achieve such balance in his mentality. Life wasn’t always this sweet and things weren’t always that clear for him. 

Born in Gonaives Haiti, Naderson grew up with his mother and sister in a small community in a rural area. Living among nature with the simpler things, he was truly able to appreciate the aspects of family values. His childhood wasn’t tainted by external material obsessions, but by spending time with his older sister Leslyne and his mother Saintana Raphael he learned to value personal time and familial bonding. It was through his love for them that he developed a deep respect and reverence for women, learned from his matriarchal upbringing and we can see that respect and love translated in his work as well. 

Take for instance his piece “The Lady Who Killed Her Abusive Husband”  which was created in 2021, five years after he began to fully delve into his career as an artist. This work is a very graphic piece that illustrates the aftermath of a murder. A naked woman is the subject, and here we can see the nude body is representing the vulnerability of the situation. She is sitting on the bed that she once shared with her husband. From the stark red background it’s shocking one into mesmerized focus on the woman who is highlight in blue outline, the subtle color setting the tone for sadness at the situation she must now face after protecting herself at the cost of her tormentor’s life. Eeriness and emptiness tinge the air, the viewer can imagine that the room is eerily silent, yet fraught full of thoughts fighting for dominance. The lady sits pensive, hands clasped perhaps in self soothing or grappling  in anxiety for what’s to come, her husband’s lifeless body lies behind her, beheaded.  

“The Lady Who Killed Her Abusive Husband” Acrylic & oil pastels 24 x 20 in

When I first saw this piece, I questioned his inspiration when he came up with this concept. But thinking back to his character, he is an avid people watcher. By listening intently to people as they discuss their personal experiences, other people’s lives become inspiration for his work. Although he has not experienced any form of domestic violence, he has proved it’s quite possible to imagine the direct perspective of a woman in that situation. His ability to empathize with others and to see them for who they are in a loving and humanizing way allows him to portray their stories with nuance and space for collective understanding and appreciation. He uses his talent and vision to amplify the voices of those who may not have the words to stand up for themselves, utilizing his art as an agent for change.

Never one to shy away from controversial topics and real life experiences, Naderson created a bevy of works during his first year in New York while being homeless. Upon arriving in New York for his exhibition, Basquiat lives, Naderson came with his works, and a suitcase. Fueled by his passion, he created a new piece every single day in the MTA subway. Each day he would create a work he would sell and use that money to spend another night in a hotel that he stayed in East New York. 

@Soriee Henzo

At the time of his arrival in New York he did not have any immediate family that he relied on.   However, his trust in self, his trust in his artistic abilities and his innate hustle and self investment came together to empower him. It was by this power that he was able to raise money each day because of his consistency and inability to give up on himself. Naderson’s courageous spirit brought him supporters without them even understanding how much he sacrificed to be present in this city, living his dream. When he wasn’t painting at the 86th street stop on the 4 train, he found himself in the artist’s hub- Washington Square Park. It was there that he began to paint in front of a larger audience. In Washington Square Park, he built a community of fellow artists, and while supporting each other as they all created works in the summer heat, he found the connections, friendships and networking landed him in many more  exhibitions. 

From April 2022 to present day Naderson Saint Pierre has exhibited in over 30 shows in New York City. The exhibitions range from the art collective Brooklyn Art Cave in Bushwick to established galleries in Chelsea, Soho and Harlem. This highlights his versatility and timelessness in his portfolio. Each space allows his work to take center stage and capture the hearts of many.  He also maintained two residences in the Oculus by way of the program Art on The Ave founded by Barbara Anderson in the heart of the Financial District in Manhattan. He currently teaches in an after school program called SPARK,  motivating children to create and learn more about their innate sense of creativity.  

- Jomani Danielle

Albert Wright: Art as Redemption

“Love Hugs“ Acrylic on Canvas

A Life Shaped by Adversity
Albert Wright, a Brooklyn-based abstract artist, has carved a path in the art world that reflects both his struggles and triumphs. His work, showcased across galleries in SoHo and through collaborations with the Leslie-Lohman Museum's Project Space, carries an emotional depth rooted in personal history.

Painting became Wright’s lifeline during the most challenging periods of his life. From incarceration to overcoming addiction, art offered him a means to process pain and channel his experiences into something greater. What began as a form of therapy grew into a lifestyle and career, where each canvas serves as both a refuge and a declaration of resilience.

“Untitled” Acrylic on Paper

“Untitled” Acrylic on Canvas

The Emotional Power of Color
The piece accompanying this article captures the essence of Wright’s artistic approach. Explosive reds and yellows set against deep blacks create a striking tension. These colors don’t merely sit on the canvas—they leap, swirl, and collide, reflecting moments of chaos interspersed with clarity. Wright’s work often carries this kind of energy, born from a process as raw and visceral as the emotions he captures.

His confidence radiates both in his demeanor and his creative decisions. Wright dictates the course of each piece, deciding when it reaches its full expression. His control over the flow and movement of his work mirrors the reclamation of control in his own life.

“What If” Acrylic on Canvas

An Enduring Legacy of Inspiration
The impact of Wright’s art extends beyond his own canvas. It has inspired the very foundation of Bleucalf Magazine. For its Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bleu Pablo, Wright’s journey from adversity to expression symbolizes the power of creativity to shift narratives and elevate voices. His legacy forms the backbone of the magazine’s commitment to showcasing stories that reflect resilience and authenticity.

Albert Wright’s work offers more than visual appeal—it is a narrative in motion, a glimpse into a life reclaimed and rebuilt. His art challenges viewers to engage with the layers of emotion embedded in each piece, leaving a lasting impression that transcends the gallery walls.

Writing by: Bleu Pablo

Marc Andre: A Creative Force Redefining Boundaries

(Photography by: Reuters/Andrew Kelly) Marc Andre @ Yeezy Season 3 Collection

Born in France, Marc spent most of his formative years in Paris exploring fine art and culture before moving to the U.S. at the age of 14. Marc Andre is a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans hip-hop and visual art. His creations blend multicultural roots with a contemporary, neo-expressionist style. Now based in New York, Andre produces art that challenges norms and celebrates individuality, drawing from African heritage, childhood imagination, and the bold energy of hip-hop culture. Initially making his mark in underground hip-hop, he transitioned to visual art in 2021.

Roots and Influences

Andre’s artistic foundation was shaped by his upbringing. Traveling with his mother, he encountered a wide range of Pan-African art in museums and exhibitions. These early influences are evident in his work, which incorporates tribal masks, vibrant colors, and dynamic mark-making. His style pays homage to his roots in Benin and Equatorial Guinea while offering a fresh perspective for modern audiences.

"My background continues to inspire everything I do," Andre says. "Knowing where I come from helps me grow creatively and personally."

Untitled, 2022 (Green Face)

Untitled, 2022 (Blue One)

Breaking Boundaries

Marc Andre's work challenges traditional art spaces by advocating for inclusivity and accessibility. His exhibitions, including those with provocative titles, critique the exclusivity of the art world. His first solo show, African Inferno, debuted at Brooklyn’s DoorDoor Gallery and was later featured at a contemporary art fair in the Hamptons.

Through bold compositions using acrylic and oil sticks, pieces like Together and Fashion Week (2022) blend abstract and figurative elements. His approach, which he describes as "organized chaos," reflects the energy of tribal rituals while incorporating humor, theatricality, and the rhythm of urban life.

Life Between Cultures

After moving to the U.S. in 2015, Andre describes himself as a "global citizen." His French upbringing, African lineage, and New York experiences blend seamlessly into his art, addressing universal themes of identity, creativity, and resilience.

Andre finds inspiration in his surroundings. He cites La Cabra café in New York’s East Village as one of his favorite spots, offering a unique vantage point to observe the city’s dynamic energy.

(Photography By: Bleu Pablo)

Untitled (Head), 2022

Capturing the Essence of Play

Andre’s work continues to channel creativity of childhood. "Kids create with purity and freedom," he explains. His art invites viewers to embrace spontaneity and joy, encouraging a return to an unfiltered sense of expression.

Looking Ahead

As his artistic journey progresses, Andre continues to bridge disciplines, combining visual art, music, and performance to challenge narratives. His work uplifts, aiming to inspire meaningful Impact in our community.

Andre’s art has been featured in notable collections, including the Tim Okamura, Julia Lang, and Westside Gunn collections. He has also modeled for Yeezy Season 3. Whether working with paint or digital media, Marc Andre’s work bridges past and present, tradition and innovation.

Jeffrey Melo: Art, Identity, and Empowerment

In the contemporary art scene, Jeffrey Melo emerges as a beacon of creativity and activism. A Dominican-American artist born in the Bronx, Melo utilizes his paintings, sculptures, and murals to illuminate the narratives of marginalized communities, especially those of Black women—figures often overlooked in broader art discourse. His work encapsulates history, culture, and the richness of human experience, revealing untold stories that resonate deeply with audiences.

Melo's artistic journey began at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he earned a BFA in Illustration in 2012. This foundational period equipped him with vital technical skills while exposing the challenges of gatekeeping within the art world. "Illustration taught me how to work as an artist, not just theoretically," Melo reflects, illustrating the complexities he faced in carving out his voice in a field that frequently sidelines figurative work.

The cultural upheaval of 2018, which sparked a national reckoning around race and equality, marked a pivotal moment for Melo. As a first-generation American with Dominican roots, he found renewed purpose in art, driven by a desire to make his voice heard. "I wanted to make my voice heard," he shares, which became the catalyst for his return to the canvas, reigniting his passion for portraying the intricacies of identity

Photography By: Elijah Martinez @thatninjajay

Melo's work predominantly centers on figurative painting, with a strong emphasis on Black subjects. His portraits are both a testament to and a critique of the art world's historical neglect of Black bodies. "They're people you would never notice unless they were on a canvas," he explains, highlighting the transformative power of art to elevate everyday heroes—nurses, teachers, and community leaders—whose stories often remain untold. Each portrait acts as an archive, ensuring these faces are seen and revered, prompting audiences to engage deeply with the narratives they embody.

Through his oil paintings, Melo provides a window into familiar yet often overlooked experiences, encouraging curiosity and accountability. "My aim is to provide the audience with the tools to get inquisitive when considering very familiar stories being presented through unfamiliar characters," he emphasizes, advocating for a more inclusive approach to storytelling in art.

Melo’s is further empowered by his passion for martial arts, particularly jiu-jitsu. This discipline informs his creative philosophy, fostering resilience and patience. “The most successful martial artists have a boring routine,” he notes, drawing parallels between the rigorous training required in martial arts and the dedication needed in art. "You show up every day, do the work, and progress slowly over time." This mindset has been pivotal in his development as an artist, teaching him that mastery comes with commitment and perseverance.

Melo's artwork is a reflection of larger societal conversations regarding Black art and representation. While strides have been made in elevating Black portraiture, he asserts that an urgent need remains for diverse voices in the narrative. “Black portraiture has been pushed into the art world in ways that weren't possible before, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t space for more voices,” he affirms, reinforcing the importance of expanding the conversation around representation.

In his discussions about the art world, Jeffrey emphasizes the importance of community and relationships. He acknowledges the systemic barriers that Black artists face, stating, "We have to be okay with the uncomfortable." By building genuine connections with collectors and fellow artists, he has cultivated a supportive network that fosters growth and opportunity.

"True collectors are those who appreciate the art and support the artist, not just for potential financial returns,"

Melo explains. He stresses the necessity of nurturing these relationships, which can lead to new opportunities that extend beyond immediate sales. Looking ahead, Jeffrey Melo is eager to push boundaries in his artistic practice. "I want to dabble in other mediums," he reveals, expressing a desire to explore larger-scale works that empower his subjects. He aims to transcend narratives of trauma, focusing instead on creating pieces that uplift and celebrate resilience.

"My work reflects the world I see—the people in my community, the stories that don’t get told,"

Melo states the importance that his art transcends aesthetic appeal. It serves as a call to action, urging viewers to engage with the humanity behind each piece.

As Jeffrey Melo continues to navigate the art world, his journey serves as an inspiration for emerging artists. Through his work, he challenges the status quo and advocates for a more inclusive narrative in art, ensuring that every voice has a place in the conversation. His contributions have been recognized through exhibitions with the Rema Hort Mann Foundation and the "One History, Two Versions" exhibition at the Spencer Museum of Art in Lawrence, KS. Additionally, he has completed artist residencies at Greatness Shack in the Bronx, NY (2020) and Arsenal Contemporary in Montreal, Canada (August 2022 - February 2023).

"Through the Lens of Empathy: Miguel Monti's Passage"

There’s a beauty in finding art in all forms and scenes and finding masterpieces in the monotony we call life. Miguel Monti possesses that ability in abundance. At the beginning of our conversation, he greeted me with such familiarity and joy that it immediately put me at ease to speak comfortably. Leaning back in his chair, he takes me to the beginning of his journey.

Born in Argentina, Monti moved with his family to Spain at the age of six. His mother was a doctor in Argentina and a professor at the university, so they lived in comfort in South America. Unfortunately, the family’s transition to Spain was not a smooth one. Upon their arrival in Spain, Miguel’s family faced economic hardship, when to their dismay, his mother would be unable to practice, so they had no job, which led to no income. During the difficult time his mother decided to practice yoga, she looked for many ways to find inner peace despite the turmoil. Monti closely watched his mother’s journey in searching for inner peace while finding his own by painting at a young age.

Monti recounts that the children were bullies when transitioning from Argentina to Spain. As a South American immigrant, they would often tell Monti he didn’t belong. But finding his strength while facing xenophobia at such a young age, he remained optimistic about a future with peace through art. Art was Monti’s solace. He made it known that he used it as a tool to bring light despite the darkness. He identified the darkness as ignorance at an early age, stating that it’s dangerous because it can keep you from learning your true self. His takeaway was that depression stems from society, materialism, family, but we can always turn inward to find that wisdom and inner peace.

When he was younger, Monti faced a lot of inner turmoil, often turning to drugs to find solace. Finally, he decided enough was enough. Moving to meditation, Monti chose to rely on spirituality, and to his surprise, he found that the practice of Zen significantly changed his perspective. The spirit of Zen showed him that everything is God and everything is expression. Every moment of painting brings him peace.

While he was able to expand his perspective, we see Miguel’s artistry evolve. A multifaceted artist who not only paints, he allows photography to develop his talents in telling the stories for those who may be unable to narrate their own lives. “I take photos of the homeless, to paint them” he told me while recounting the many lives he’s interacted with that no one else seems to see. “Yes, they are homeless, but they are people, and their stories need to be told. I want to show that these people are the same. They have the same energy and the same purpose. They are so full of love and strong presence, some people have a plethora of money but no soul.”

Inflamed with passion for the injustice of many who are often ignored, Monti resonated with them. He would often hold conversations with them and build a connection with them before finally capturing them on camera. Inspiration strikes Monti on a level that transcends the aesthetic; it’s not a mere surface-level portrait he aims to grasp but the soul's essence. Monti has moved with integrity in his life and artistry that shows his value of human life and his ability to honor others’ perspectives purely and respectfully.

Writing - Jomani Danielle @jomanidanielle

The Art of Humanity: Marcus Antonius Jansen’s Path of Expression, History, and Change

Marcus Antonius Jansen’s art captures history, identity, and the essence of humanity. From his roots in Queens to becoming a globally recognized artist, Jansen’s life reflects resilience, cultural discovery, and a relentless pursuit of societal betterment.

A Creative Spark

Jansen’s artistic path began in a classroom in Queens, where a painting of a lion earned him recognition at the Lever House in Manhattan. "That experience taught me that art isn’t just for decoration but a way to make an impact and express oneself," Jansen recalls. This moment ignited his passion, further enriched by the graffiti culture of the 1980s. Influenced by trailblazers like WEST, Jansen embraced the raw creativity of street art while integrating techniques from European painters he encountered during his time abroad. These experiences shaped his distinctive style, combining personal expression with social awareness.

Urban Influence

Growing up in the Bronx during the economic struggles and cultural shifts of the 1960s and 1970s deeply influenced Jansen. "The city’s diversity, unpredictability, and vibrancy inspired me to create art that had something to say," he shares. His summers immersed in graffiti culture sharpened his vision, rooting his artistic approach in the city’s complex social dynamics.

From Soldier to Humanitarian

Jansen’s life took a dramatic turn when he served as a Gulf War veteran. The devastating effects of war prompted him to question imperialism and global conflicts. "I decided to advocate for humanity through my art," he explains. Post-discharge, art therapy reignited his creativity. Today, his work addresses colonialism, systemic inequality, and racial hierarchies, using distorted imagery to challenge mainstream narratives of power and privilege.

The Faceless Series: Power and Anonymity

One of Jansen’s most celebrated works, the Faceless series, explores themes of control and invisibility. The faceless figures in these paintings symbolize hidden structures of power. "They reflect the forces that manipulate our lives yet remain unseen," Jansen explains. The series has earned international acclaim, with pieces displayed in renowned collections, including that of NBA star Jimmy Butler, as featured in Architectural Digest.

Art Beyond the Canvas

In 2019, Jansen launched the Marcus Jansen Foundation to support artists and marginalized communities. "We wanted to focus on helping others, especially those with disabilities," he notes. The foundation has funded initiatives tackling food insecurity and supported grassroots projects in the Bronx, aligning with Jansen’s mission to uplift underrepresented voices.

New Frontiers

Jansen’s upcoming projects highlight his global outlook and creative evolution. Plans include a collaboration with Swedish company Limitato for a clothing line and his first solo exhibition in Sweden in 2025. Despite his international success, Jansen remains grounded, committed to creating art that inspires empathy and drives meaningful conversations. "I want my work to reflect humanity’s shared experiences and encourage positive change," he emphasizes. To young creatives addressing societal themes, Jansen advises: "Focus on finding your unique voice. The world needs your perspective, especially now."

Art as a Catalyst for Change

Jansen’s work transcends visual beauty; it’s a call to reflect, challenge, and connect. His journey from New York’s streets to global acclaim demonstrates art’s ability to inspire dialogue and transformation. Through his creations, Jansen continues to spotlight the human experience, urging us to strive for a more equitable world.

Resilience Redefined: The Extraordinary Journey of Dr. Margarita Rosa

Bishop Gallery, Photography by @bleupablo, Artwork By: @amaryllisrflowers

In the world of art and culture, few names shine as brightly as Dr. Margarita Rosa's. A tour de force in her own right, she has defied expectations and shattered glass ceilings, emerging as a powerhouse curator, historian, and community builder. Her remarkable journey from the Dominican countryside to the hallowed halls of academia and beyond is a testament to the power of resilience and passion.

Born in the small town of Tenares, Dominican Republic, Rosa's early years were imbued with the richness of nature and a deep appreciation for her roots. At the tender age of five, her family immigrated to Jersey City, New Jersey, where she found herself navigating the complexities of a new culture while honoring her Dominican heritage.

Raised in an environment of poverty, Rosa's path was anything but predestined. "When you were a girl growing up in Jersey City, the biggest thing that you think that you could be is potentially a video vixen, come to then realize that you can be that if you want and be a university professor. There’s duality in both,” she recalls with a hint of nostalgia. Yet, her unwavering determination and involvement in extracurricular activities, including serving as the co-captain of the cheerleading team and class president, paved the way for her acceptance into Rutgers University through an affirmative action program—a pivotal moment that would shape her future.

With an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Rosa thrived academically, earning admission to prestigious institutions like Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford for her graduate studies. She ultimately chose Princeton, where she spent six transformative years honing her craft as a historian, specializing in Caribbean history and the study of rebellion.

Bishop Gallery, Photography by @bleupablo, Artwork By: @Amelia.Projects

However, it was her profound encounter with the art world in 2020 that ignited a newfound passion. During a visit to the Museo del Barrio's "Estamos Bien" exhibition, Rosa was struck by the familiarity of Jamira Collado's soap installation, instantly transporting her back to her Dominican roots. This visceral experience, combined with the raw emotion evoked by Raelis Vasquez's paintings, propelled her into the realm of art criticism.

"If there's anyone that should be writing about Caribbean art, it's me," Rosa proclaimed, driven by a desire to bridge the gap between the artists' lived experiences and the often-detached perspectives of mainstream art critics.

From that pivotal moment, Rosa embarked on an unconventional journey, leveraging social media as her first "resume" and forging connections with galleries and artists alike. Her unique perspective, informed by her academic background and lived experiences, quickly established her as a sought-after voice in the art world.

Bishop Gallery, Photography by @bleupablo, Artwork by: @Maiyaleaart

Today, Rosa's impact extends far beyond the confines of the art world. As the founder of Rosa Projects, she has created a platform dedicated to fostering pivotal collaborations between artists and brands, while also championing underrepresented voices and communities. The upcoming Rosa Projects Women Artists Apprenticeship program exemplifies her commitment to empowering women of color artists, providing them with invaluable mentorship, professional development, and opportunities for institutional recognition.

"I do prioritize Black women in everything I do," Rosa affirms, recognizing her structural privilege as a Dominican woman and the importance of elevating voices that have long been marginalized.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Rosa's dedication to community service shines through her involvement with organizations like Latinas y Líderes and Mi-si, which support young girls and survivors of the sex trade, respectively.

As an artist, curator, and entrepreneur, Dr. Margarita Rosa embodies the very essence of resilience—a quality that has propelled her from the small town of Tenares to the forefront of the art world and beyond. Her journey is a powerful reminder that our roots, no matter how humble, can be the foundation upon which we build extraordinary legacies.

Writing Credits:

Written by: Bleu Pablo @bleupablo
Co-Auth: Rosa Guadalupe @Rosaguadalupe_art

Photography: Bleu Pablo
Photography Assistant: Damany Campbell

Kadeem Philip, aka Life of Deem explores autobiographical meaning in paintings

“Everything has been an accident.”

That is how Kadeem Philip, aka Life of Deem, describes his art career so far. The visual artist and illustrator says he never really planned on becoming an artist. He turned to art during difficult times in his life to help him express his emotions and channel his thoughts. In 2014, he took a leap and has worked on his art ever since.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Kadeem first started drawing when he was around five years old. He says his mom, a fashion designer, was his first teacher, but it was his uncle who introduced him to graphic novels and really made him interested in drawing and sketching.

When he was 14, Kadeem said he had stopped drawing altogether. He was starting high school, and he was not sure if he wanted to be known as the “artsy kid.” At the age of 20, during his first battle with depression that art came into his life again.  He saw a close friend of his, whom he did not know was an artist, drawing, and that encouraged him to start drawing again. During his final year in college, Kadeem said he knew he wanted to be an artist. He said that he was a DJ at the time, so he had an artistic outlet, but drawing and sketching made him feel at peace. He said, “I didn’t even know about Michael’s at the time… I didn’t know which materials were low grade, expensive, or cheap; I just bought materials and taught myself to paint.”

Kadeem is not trying to fit a particular niche; he just creates what he feels. He has made two series, Colors and Kadie.  The Colors series is dedicated to the women in his life and the women of the world. Each color and feature seen in the portraits is deliberately chosen to represent some aspect of the women’s life. In one piece, a portrait of his mother, he broke down why he decided to include some aspects in her painting to create a complete picture of her. The various shades of purple represent his mom’s favorite color, lavender. These purple hues also represent some nostalgia for the artist as purple was the color of his mother’s bedroom when he was growing up. The purple butterflies symbolize lupus, a disease that his mother is currently living with. The lotus flowers, grown in the dark, murky environments into something beautiful, represent his journey with his mother. “With my mother being a single parent, it was hard going up, but that time in my life was beautiful.”

The series Kadie is his life. All its good, all of its bad, and all of its changes. The series centers on a drawing of a stuffed bear. The bear is a little beaten up. There is a band-aid on his left eye and a tear in his left shoulder. Kadeem drew the bear for a previous project but never planned to create a series around it. It wasn’t until he was injured at work that he found himself relating to the bear, with his own dislocated left shoulder and an injury to his left eye. He decided to turn this bear drawing into a painting, and people couldn’t stop asking him about the story behind it. He said, “The bear is me telling what I feel and go through.” Self-portraits, he says, where you show yourself in pain are not always the easiest to share with family and friends. So the bear became a medium through which he can share all his feelings, positive or negative, in a way that draws people in and makes them want to know more. Kadeem says that the “Kadie” series will continue with him and serve as an autobiography of his life. 

Kadeem plans to take his art on tour one day, both nationally and internationally. He says he would most love to do shows in Tokyo, Paris, and Switzerland. Another goal of his is to collaborate with big brands, like Nike and 10deep, and smaller, local businesses in Brooklyn. Kadeem started supporting himself solely through his art two years ago. While it hasn’t been easy, he says he is fulfilled and enjoys “moving how he wants. “ He is currently working on a graphic novel for kids and a partnership with Thrive Collective, an organization that not only puts murals in schools but also teaches kids to paint murals. He says that at this point in his life, he is choosing projects, not just looking to be compensated for his work but feeling fulfilled and enjoying the work he does.

Demarcus McGaughey's rebellion Toward Complacency, Negativity, And Submission

Demarcus McGaughey expands the definition of love in action - whether extending the legacy of his loved ones through vibrant visual artwork or contributing inspirational messages of strength and positivity to the black community.

He delivers both forms in depicting the departed artist, friend, and "guardian angel" Taufeeq Muhammad in When You Believe. He portrays Muhammad in an aspirational upward gaze, face framed by a nimbus pulled straight from the stained glass windows of a 17th-century cathedral and splashed with a stylized neon pattern. Demarcus recites his dear friend's affirmation, "When you believe, everybody else around you will believe." making the painting shine a little brighter.

Demarcus' attitude is solidified through an active rebellion toward complacency, negativity, and submission to doubt. His art wisps itself through and around community and entrepreneurship, two concepts attached at the hip. An appropriate artist to be featured in this Volume of Bleucalf, Demarcus places his brush at the center of Uptown ownership. A featured artist in ArtCrawl Harlem's Governors Island Residency Program highlighting 100 years of Harlem history, Demarcus reflects on the sheer bravery it took for NYC transplants to move themselves to Harlem in pursuit of their dreams. Despite every possible tribulation, they created an iconic cultural community and thrived beyond doubt.

Deeply inspired by their courage and the manifestation of success, Demarcus represents the fruition of culture, self-belief, ownership, and community in Ambassador of Harlem. The subject is draped in apparel designed by Black-owned companies. Accessories like the Ronald Draper Pin and The Very Black Project tee and even a Black-owned Bodega, brandishing the tagline, "Our Own Community" in the faded background, are nods toward the cultural motivation and representation McGaughey delivers.

Even with such a beautiful expression of positivity and inspiration, McGaughey is painfully aware of both the gift and curse of willpower and trust. He describes the choice all have - the decision to listen to the shouts of affirmation or the whispers of doubt. Trust portrays what it might look like to choose the whisper. The social experiment that eventually brought about the piece required subjects to partner up and express themselves with a limited arsenal of phrases: I trust you. I don't trust you. I don't know. 

Demarcus sat before his partner and led by affirming his unshakably positive outlook. "I trust you." Laura, the subject and artist in her own right, negated his expression with honesty and intuition. "I don't trust you." Stunned, Demarcus considered the experiences that might have caused her response. He moves her direct expression away from himself in his artistic process, and though taken aback, he adorns her soul-piercing, defiant eyes in golden regality. He acknowledges the queen within her and calls himself and his viewers to stand in rebellion toward distrust.  

“Trust in your mindset. Your gift. Yourself. ”

— Demarcus states.

This philosophy of self-belief persists in all of Demarcus' work and even his life coaching practice. It's his contribution to the world. He recalls a crystalizing line of advice from his own life coach in a moment of self-doubt. "People are waiting on you." As with most wisdom received in youth, this gem took a while to marinate for Demarcus. He clarifies, "People in the world are waiting on you." Conquering your dream inspires others to achieve their own. Those realized dreams inspire others. And so on, and so on. 

Demarcus' philosophy around artwork and life itself reflects Tupac's fossilized line of truth, "I'm not saying I'm gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will change the world." In retrospect, Pac was modest, something out of character for the immortalized artist's distinguishable bravado. Demarcus similarly understands the domino effect of self-belief and the interconnectivity of a self-informed destiny. Thus, he views his artistic ambition and the responsibility to execute his vision as petals of the same flower.