The Culture Candy: Building a Space for Artists to Thrive
Left: Zalika Sterling
Right: Lee La Cubana
Art has always been essential for individuals to express themselves and connect with others. However, for many artists, especially those in marginalized communities, finding opportunities to showcase their work can be challenging. That's where art collectives like The Culture Candy come in. Founded by Lee Lee La Cubana and Zalika Sterling in 2020, The Culture Candy is a curation company and collective that aims to provide a safe space for artists to share their work and be seen.
The Background of The Culture Candy
The founders of The Culture Candy, Lee Lee La Cubana and Zalika Sterling met while working at the Brooklyn District Attorney's office in 2018. At the time, Lee Lee was finishing up her BFA, and she was frustrated with the limitations that art school had put on her creative freedom. She expressed her frustrations to Zalika, who suggested they showcase their work at The Heath Gallery in Harlem, NY. The response was incredible and super supportive, and Lee Lee and Zalika realized there was a need for a space to celebrate the work of artists like themselves.
The Mission of The Culture Candy
The mission of The Culture Candy is to provide artists with showcase opportunities and a safe space to share their work. The collective started small, with an Outdoor Art Gala in 2020, which attracted over 300 people despite pandemic restrictions. Since then, The Culture Candy has organized pop-ups, 3-day exhibits, monthly curations, and public exhibitions. Their ultimate goal is to create their own art fair, heART Con, which would be the centerpiece of NYC Art Week every June.
Positive Impact on the Community
The Culture Candy has made a significant impact on the art community in New York City. By providing a platform for underrepresented artists, they have given a voice to those who might otherwise go unheard. They have also built a supportive community of artists who share a passion for creating art that reflects their experiences and cultures. The feedback from artists who have worked with The Culture Candy has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their gratitude for the opportunities that the collective has provided.
The Importance of Art Collectives in Today's Society
Art collectives like The Culture Candy are essential in today's society because they encourage community building and support. They provide a space where artists can connect with like-minded individuals and showcase their work without fear of judgment or rejection. Additionally, art collectives like The Culture Candy can contribute to the larger cultural landscape by promoting authentic and diverse representations of art and artists.
How the Community Can Support The Culture Candy
As with any art collective, The Culture Candy relies on the support of society to thrive. Individuals can support the collective by attending their events, purchasing artwork from their artists, and spreading the word about their work. However, there are other ways in which society can support The Culture Candy and other art collectives. For example, initiatives and programs that provide funding or resources to underrepresented artists could go a long way in helping them succeed.
In conclusion, The Culture Candy is a shining example of art collectives’ positive impact on the community. By providing a safe space for underrepresented artists to showcase their work, they have built a supportive community of artists passionate about creating authentic representations of their cultures and experiences. As society continues to recognize the importance of diverse voices in the arts, art collectives like The Culture Candy will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the cultural landscape of the future.
Website: https://www.theculturecandy.com/
IG: @theculturecandy