'Native Son' VIP Opening Reception

Join us for the opening reception of Native Son, presented by Art Melanated, as we celebrate the brilliant work of renowned artist Kevin A. Williams, on the stunning rooftop of the Hyatt Centric Hotel. 
 

Native Son Opening Reception
Saturday, Oct. 19
5 - 8 p
Hyatt Centric Hotel Rooftop | 33 Beale St.
Exhibition on view in the lobby

About the artist:
Kevin A. Williams, whose parents were both born and raised in Memphis, has become an iconic figure in Black art and culture. Beginning his professional journey at the remarkable age of 16, Williams has spent the last four decades creating some of the most recognizable and influential images in the Black community. This exhibition not only celebrates Williams’ incredible career but also serves as a tribute to the deep-rooted history and artistic legacy of Memphis.
 

Williams has been hailed a modern-day Norman Rockwell for Black America - except his paintings don't just charm, they stir the soul. Where Rockwell captured quaint Americana, Williams delivers raw, unapologetic elegance, spotlighting the beauty, resilience, and complexities of African-American life throughout history. With a career spanning more than 40 years, Williams‘ work blends realism with rich, emotional storytelling, making him one of today’s living masters, a painter who immortalizes everyday heroes with a brush as bold as his vision. If Rockwell chronicled America's ideal, Williams reminds us who built it.
 

About Art Melanated:
Founded by Sol Aponte & Jennia Fredrique Aponte, Art Melanated thrives at the vibrant intersection of art, community, and culture. We are a dynamic platform dedicated to celebrating and amplifying the voices of artists of color. Our mission is to provide a space where diverse artistic expressions can flourish, fostering meaningful connections between artists and their communities.
 

About Sol & Jennia:
Sol Aponte is the visionary founding father of Art Melanated, a pioneering nomadic gallery redefining how Black art is curated and experienced. Known for creating elevated, innovative art exhibitions, Sol’s approach extends far beyond the traditional gallery model. Through Art Melanated, he has spearheaded groundbreaking group economics initiatives, bringing together collectors to purchase works from celebrated artists like Harmonia Rosales, Robert Peterson, Bisa Butler, and B. Robert Moore, securing their place in prestigious museum collections.
 

Sol is highly respected within the art world, known not only for his expertise but also for his generosity. A passionate advocate for emerging artists and new collectors, he dedicates his time to educating and mentoring the next generation, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the art market.
 

As a board trustee of the Memphis Brooks Museum and a member of the Black Trustees Alliance, Sol’s influence reaches into some of the most powerful art institutions, furthering the mission to elevate Black art and its cultural significance on a global scale. In addition to his work with Art Melanated, Sol is producing a documentary that takes a deep dive into the world of Black art, chronicling the journey of artists, curators, and collectors who are reshaping the narrative of contemporary art.
 

Jennia Fredrique Aponte grew up in Gary, Indiana, where her artistic journey began at the age of seven. As the co-creator of Art Melanated, Jennia serves as a creative curator for this groundbreaking nomadic gallery that champions contemporary artists of color. Her artistic path took a significant turn with the filming of the Art Melanated documentary, a transformative experience that reignited her passion for collage, leading her to sell out exhibitions at In The Paint and Band of Vices.
 

Known for her exquisite paper mosaics, Jennia skillfully weaves narratives into her art, captivating audiences with her unique storytelling. Her contributions have been instrumental in curating monumental events such as the Stevie Wonder Exhibition, The Art of Dance, and The Divine Feminine. Each exhibition not only celebrates the richness of Black art but also fosters a vibrant community engaged in meaningful dialogue.
 

With a mission to educate and uplift emerging artists, Jennia amplifies their voices within the broader cultural landscape. Her dual role as an artist and curator embodies her dedication to making art accessible and profoundly impactful for all.