03/11/2024
About Last Night 🙏🏾
Having a "seat at the table" symbolizes being given a fair opportunity to participate and have one's voice heard in spaces where decisions are made, discussions are held, and recognition is granted. For Black artists and Black gallerists, who have historically faced underrepresentation, this phrase takes on a poignant significance. It's about breaking through barriers that have long been established by an elite few who gatekeep the realms of art and its appreciation, often relegating it to the realms of privilege.
Being invited to exclusive art dinners, where the energy is palpable and the celebration of art is genuine, is a transformative experience. It's in these gatherings, like the one celebrating the exceptional talents of artists like Xavier Edward Carter and Tabatha Trolli, that one can find the essence of what art should be about: connection, appreciation, and community. The space itself becomes a testimony to artistic expression—the entrance setting, the stage, the music weaving the mood, the art commanding attention, and the guests contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the evening.
Such environments stand in stark contrast to the pretentiousness often encountered in the art world. Instead of feeling like an outsider, these immersive experiences bring forth immense joy and a sense of belonging among individuals who are not just present but engaged and connected. It's the authenticity and the raw appreciation of talent that draws people together, not the exclusivity.
As a Black entrepreneur and woman, having a seat at the table isn't just about physical presence; it's about being heard, seen, appreciated, and supported on equal footing with peers. It's about being able to make a living and care for one's own without sacrificing one's identity, purpose, or dimming one's light. The willingness to make adjustments for the betterment of the business is a testament to resilience and dedication, but never at the cost of losing oneself.
This is your reminder to NEVER dim your light to fit one's version of who YOU should be! Tell them to put on shades, specifically ‼️💯🕶