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THROUGH his Lens
Victor Otero is a photographer born and raised in the vibrant neighborhoods of Harlem and the Bronx in New York City. He attended Dreamyard Preparatory high school and New York City College of Technology and has since established himself as a well-known figure in the photography world.
Victor Otero 2020’
In recognition of his efforts, Otero received commendations and state assembly citations for his work as a community organizer and treasurer for the Taft Houses Resident Association from 2018-2020. During his tenure, he focused on creating better health outcomes, providing employment services, and utilizing NYCHA budgets to offer opportunities to residents.
Photo by: Vic Otero
Yet, despite his success, Otero has faced numerous obstacles in his career. One such challenge is the high cost of wall space for exhibitions. While Otero has been accepted into several shows, the fees for wall space can be as much as $3000-$5000, making it difficult for artists, especially those from communities of color, to afford. Nonetheless, Otero remains committed to his craft and his community.
Photo by: Vic Otero
Otero's photographic style is influenced by the work of Jamel Shabazz, a renowned American photographer known for his iconic portraits of New York City in the 1980s. Through his art, Otero seeks to convey stories of vulnerability and self-acceptance.
His recent exhibitions include the Art and Model Mixer, Heart Attack showcase at the NJ Film Factory, Start Shows New You Art Exhibition at One Art Space, and The Holy Art Gallery in London, to name a few. He has also co-hosted and co-curated the Scott Bleu Studios Art of Tres Leches exhibition.
Photo by: Vic Otero
Otero's upcoming exhibitions include Heart Attack showcase part 2 in May at the NJ Film Factory and the Brooklyn Independent Comics Showcase in April.
Through his photography, Victor Otero is capturing and preserving the essence of Harlem and the Bronx and sharing them with a broader audience. He is a talented artist and a passionate community member, and we eagerly anticipate his future projects.
“The Rare Ones Never Conform.”
“Power” @ Art On The Ave, 2022
Activist, entrepreneur, artist, and extraordinaire Shanequa Benitez uses her creative expression to convey the beauty and struggles of her community. Her art embodies the power of storytelling, community, and creativity to heal the wounds of systemic oppression.
Growing up in Yonkers' housing projects, Shanequa became involved with drug dealing and violence, which eventually led to her getting her jaw broken. This was a turning point for her, as she lost many friends to violence or prison. Then, in 2010, she was featured in "The House I Live In," a documentary exposing the failures of America's War on Drugs and the prison system. Again, sharing her story in the documentary was a life-changing experience for her.
Now based in New York City, Shanequa's paintings and streetwear designs incorporate bold colors and empowering messages. Her art reflects the times and draws inspiration from such artists as Nina Simone and Basquiat. In 2019, Shanequa was the Cover Artist for Bleucalf Magazine Vol. 1, showcasing her unique style and contribution to art.
Photography For Bleucalf Vol 1. Cover
Shanequa's recent achievement was her solo show titled "It's Yours," which explored the effects of redlining on neighborhoods. The exhibit showcased Shanequa's deep understanding of the intersectionality between race, class, and housing discrimination and how these issues impact communities of color.
The exhibit featured paintings, installations, and other multimedia artwork that invited viewers to reflect on the systemic inequalities and injustices that have historically marginalized communities of color. Shanequa's use of bright colors, bold imagery, and powerful messaging communicated her message poignantly and memorably.
"Redlining" @ Yonkers Arts, 2023
The show received high praise from art critics and community members, who appreciated Shanequa's bold and innovative approach to tackling complex social issues. It is clear that Shanequa is a force to be reckoned with in the art world, and her work will continue to inspire and challenge us all to create a more just and equitable society.
“Why Black Art Matters Now More Than Ever”
As a society, we are starting to have more conversations about race and what it truly means to be a person of color in America. These conversations are important and necessary but can also be complicated and painful. Art has always been a way for creatives to express themselves and their cultures.
For black artists, their art is often a way to express their experiences as a person of color in America. Black art has always been political and has always been about more than just aesthetics. In a time when the country is divided, Its can be a unifying force.
Our expression as black creatives is a way for us to be seen and heard. It is a way for us to connect with others with shared experiences. It’s our way of healing.
Art has always been a source of strength and inspiration for Black people. It is a reflection of our experiences, our struggles, and our triumphs. Black art is political, it is defiant, and it is beautiful.
In a world that often tells us that we are not enough, Black art reminds us of our power. It reminds us that we are seen, we are heard, and we matter.
Black art matters. It exerts power. It is a source of hope and strength. It is essential, and it is here to
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— Bleu Pablo