ArtServe recently celebrated the opening of its first exhibit of 2025, “Burnout and Black Artists: Emotional Sustainability in the Arts,” bringing together a diverse audience from the local South Florida community for an evening of live music, dance and thought-provoking art.
Sponsored by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), this exhibit, open through March 28th, dives into the emotional struggles that Black artists face. It looks at the weight of trauma and pain, and how the pressure to constantly create around these themes can be exhausting. “Burnout and Black Artists” also shines a light on the need for emotional sustainability—showing that it’s important to move beyond trauma and focus on growth. The exhibit pushes for a more holistic view of the Black experience, opening up important conversations about emotional well-being and personal discovery.
The opening reception was held at ArtServe’s gallery in Fort Lauderdale, offering guests a first look at a dynamic and talented group of artists, including:
- Holly Forbes, who brings abstract art to life through vibrant colors and evocative shapes, weaving themes of renewal and emotional sustainability. Her work, such as “I Am Refreshed,” encourages viewers to embrace joy and strength amidst struggles.
- Joshua D. Buron’s striking works speak to identity, mental health and the impact of creativity on emotional healing, using his signature characters Everything and Mo to navigate complex emotions with humor and depth.
- Kimberly Ferguson, known for her ceramic sculptures, uses nature and chaos to tell stories of emotional healing. Her work reflects her personal journey, addressing the intersections of mental health in our digital age and exploring human connections in nature.
- Anthony Robinson explores the beauty and movement of Black ballet through bold, colorful works inspired by his daughters. His art merges realism with elements of fantasy, telling powerful stories of strength and grace.
- Yvonne Pubien, a former community police officer turned artist, creates pieces that encourage others to embrace their own creativity. Through her transformative journey, she emphasizes the importance of art in self-expression and community connection.
- Art Cartwright invites viewers to engage with texture and light through his tactile, color-rich works. His innovative use of pigments and light draws the viewer into an immersive experience of color and perception.
- Sheila Alexander celebrates the beauty of nature, love and ancestry through her vibrant paintings. Her work offers a space for reflection, connection and a deeper appreciation for life’s simple, yet profound, gifts.
- Stacy Daugherty, through her stunning macro photography, magnifies the hidden details of nature, transforming the smallest elements into awe-inspiring, larger-than-life images. Her work invites viewers to see the world through a more intimate and mindful lens, fostering deeper connections with both nature and self.
ArtServe invites all to visit and experience this thought-provoking show, free of charge, at their Fort Lauderdale location at 1350 East Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
ArtServe inspires, supports and advances its diverse members, artists and community by promoting artistic development, education and prosperity through the exploration and presentation of the visual and performing arts. For more information about these events, or to become a member, volunteer, or support ArtServe’s mission, please visit www.artserve.org or email [email protected].