WHAT: Jackson Street Gallery Professional Art Opening #2: Minds Unmasked
ARTIST: Raymond L. Haywood
CURATOR: Mark Harris
WHEN: Opening Reception: Friday, October 25, 5:00-7:00 PM
Art Show up from October 25-November 22, 2024
WHERE: Jackson Street Gallery and Lounge
WHY: The Professional Artist Series Art Shows have returned this year after an over four-year hiatus! Curated by Visual Arts Instructor, Mark Harris, these showings of work by professional artists from around the Bay Area offer a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn first-hand from visual artists working in the field. Minds Unmasked opens Friday, October 25th from 5-7 PM with a reception in the Jackson Street Lounge, and a walk & talk through of the exhibit with Raymond L. Haywood.
These exhibits and openings are OPEN to the Public and FREE FOR ALL!
Artist statement: Raymond L. Haywood's abstract expressionist paintings serve as powerful conduits for exploring the complex landscape of mental health across diverse cultures. Drawing from his rich background as an Afrofuturist artist and educator, Haywood's work transcends traditional boundaries, inviting viewers to engage with the emotional depths of human experience. His dynamic use of color, texture, and form creates a visual language that speaks to the universal nature of mental health challenges, while simultaneously honoring the unique perspectives of marginalized communities.
Building on his previous exhibitions, such as "ENVy of Desire" and "Surprise, Surprise: Motha#@?%$!", Haywood's latest body of work for "Minds Unmasked" aims to illuminate the often-overlooked mental health struggles faced by high school students from all backgrounds. Through his signature style of layering and excavation, Haywood crafts emotive pieces that encourage dialogue and introspection. By presenting these works in an educational context, we hope to foster a more inclusive and empathetic environment where students feel empowered to seek professional help and support, regardless of their cultural background. This exhibition stands as a testament to the power of art in breaking down barriers and promoting mental health awareness across all communities.
Artist Bio: Raymond L. Haywood is a Berkeley-born abstract expressionist painter and educator whose artistic journey began in his youth, inspired by his stepfather's passion for auto mechanics and his grandfather's interest in computers. After earning his BFA in painting from UC San Diego and an MFA from San Francisco State University, Haywood developed a unique artistic voice shaped by his diverse upbringing and experience as a journeyman carpenter. His work seamlessly blends Neo Abstract Expressionism with Afrofuturism, often utilizing self-made wooden supports and exploring distressed wood surfaces layered with vibrant colors. Beyond his studio practice, Haywood is committed to education and community engagement, teaching construction at Freedom High School and promoting local artists through initiatives like the Art of the African Diaspora exhibition. His work, which explores themes of identity, mental illness, African American culture, and history, has earned him recognition and awards, solidifying his position as a significant voice in contemporary art.