BOSTON – Boston’s first art gallery by Black people has opened in the city’s Seaport district.
“It’s really an attempt to have the Seaport reflect the rich cultural heritage of the city,” said Tavares Brewington, founder of innovation and entrepreneurship lab Street2Ivy. Brewington, along with creative agency Street Theory Collective, opened the Blckchip Gallery on Thursday.
Focus on lesser-known artists
“It will be a place where we showcase artists, focusing on lesser-known black and brown artists,” Brewington said.
The Seaport is an important location for the artists and their artwork. Brewington said the paint, color and canvases help to create the fabric of the neighborhood.
“It’s going to be a place where people from different backgrounds can come and enjoy all the great things here in the Seaport,” Brewington said. “And make Boston that shining city on the hill.”
“It’s something you don’t normally see in this environment,” said artist Paul Goodnight, speaking to art lovers and fellow creatives at the gallery’s grand opening. He said he’s proud to have his work on display. “It’s a way to meet a new audience and show the excellent work that’s available here.”
Providing access and education
Gallery curators hope the Seaport site serves another purpose. Artists like Rob Gibbs and Meclina Gomes take pride in providing access and education to the community.
“The most important thing is that we celebrate fine artists who are people of color,” Gomes said. “Their value, who they are in this community, the legacy we all build together is vitally important.”
The plan is for the gallery to remain open for the foreseeable future and become a fixture in Boston.
Laura Haefeli
