Gallery Hours: Wednesday - Saturday from 11am - 4 pm | 191 S. Main St. Akron, OH 44308 | Mailing Address: 121 South Main Street Suite 500 Akron, OH
Gallery is open Wed-Sat 11AM - 4PM at 191 King James Way Akron, OH 44308
Adana tillman

Black Joy
As an Akron Soul Train Artist in residence for December 2021, I wanted a continuation of my body of work that debuted in early 2021. Portraiture through depictions of self-expression and awareness are themes through-out the work. During this residency I wanted to expand and experiment into installation work. The work embodies body colors, textures and hand stitching that can be seen throughout the work. Inspiration comes from all around me. I am an observer and take from my surroundings. The movement of dancers, pedestrians all serve as inspiration. The vast style of the African diaspora is shown through fashion, hair, and style which can be seen throughout my work.
As an artist working typically in textiles and found fabrics, I wanted to take this time to explore other avenues of artistic expression. Included in this exhibit will be new work of contemporary quilted pieces along with a refinished school desk installation piece. This was an opportunity to work with different materials and experiment with techniques such as wood burning and the art for gold leaf. With this installation piece I hope to explore the questions of Who Am I? and how contemplation on this one question can bring about self-awareness and joy.



