Debuting Blackberry Lemonade at Fresh Fest Cleveland

This September, I had the incredible opportunity to showcase my latest piece, Blackberry Lemonade, at Fresh Fest Cleveland. This piece is a vibrant homage to the spirit and aesthetic of 1970s Blaxploitation film posters, with a modern twist. Set against a bold background of rich blue forget-me-nots, a playful pop of yellow lemons, and textured blackberries, Blackberry Lemonade embodies energy, nostalgia, and joy. It’s more than just an artwork; it’s a celebration of Black culture and resilience, wrapped in layers of color and symbolism.

Creating Blackberry Lemonade was a journey in itself. I wanted it to convey the richness of Black creativity and community, much like the films that inspired me. Each detail—from the vibrant fruit elements to the mix of figures—was chosen to celebrate togetherness and joy, while nodding to the visual storytelling style of the ’70s.

Fresh Fest was the perfect setting for this piece, surrounded by music, art, and people who understood the cultural resonance of the work. Seeing attendees engage with the piece, take photos, and even dance around it was an experience I'll cherish. It reminded me of why I do what I do—to create spaces that celebrate Black beauty, art, and legacy.

Stay tuned for more photos and reflections on this event, and thank you to everyone who came out to support this debut!