Innovative. Thought-provoking. Opportunity. For the culture. These are just a few words used to describe the art gallery that premiered in Houston's busiest area of town Collect it For The Culture ll.
From January 29th- February 28th colorful pieces decorated the walls of a two story Forever 21 clothing store turned event space. Captivating pieces from 30+ artists ranging from the furniture and plant placements filled the spacious building. It was a vibrant sight to see.
Founder and curator of Black Buddha Creative Agency, India Lovejoy, worked along with Robert Hodge, an artist who has gained much traction in Houston, to create this gallery. [To the left: India Lovejoy and Robert Hodge/ Photo credit: Emmile C.Browne]
Since 2017, India has provided a variety of resources to artists by way of Black Buddha Creative Agency, working with individuals who have a strong creative vision, but need structure to execute it with quality.
In 2018 Lovejoy launched her first gallery as an introduction to a series she was calling Alt. (alternative) Space Art Collecting. This would be a series of six shows all highlighting different aspects of art collecting, one being Collect it For The Culture with Robert Hodge.
“Robert understood what the message was which was intersecting different cultures and educating them about buying art and collecting art, and also supporting a local economy.”
The duo has been working as partners on this creation for four years.
“It has been a journey,” expresses a tired India Lovejoy.
Rightfully so, after four months of solidifying the location, and two years of beginning the processes and planning, Collect it for the Culture III has ignited an interest in the passion of art and art collecting. [To the Right: Artist is Colby Deal]
According to India, this gallery has always had positive feedback without hesitation in giving accolades, one of the reasons being that it is an independent production. This created much room for both her and Robert to take complete creative control.
“When you put your faith behind the artist and your endorsement behind the art something really special happens.”
She expressed her realization that,
” Houston wants to work together.. But there’s just really not enough opportunities for this many people to work together in such a collaborative way.” [To the Left: Artist is Romeo Robinson]
After experiencing the show and the after-effects of creative collaboration, inspiration is one of the multiple things people have gained from this show.
There was a sense of community. People from different creative backgrounds, and parts of Houston, enjoying pieces from artists who've worked to have a platform. It was a transforming moment for the duo.
- Written by JayhlinMichele
#JourneysWithJayhlin Through TheNewAmazing102.5FM