Last weekend, I found myself in Atlanta for the Black Boy Art Show. From the moment I walked in, I could tell this trip was going to feel different. I attended the D.C. show, where I observed artists who knew how to command a room with their work. However, I was especially excited to experience what creators tied to Southern roots would bring to the art conversation. There’s a particular kind of history, texture, and pride that lives in the South. I came ready for art that would reflect that spirit in unexpected ways — and I wasn’t disappointed.

Atlanta Black Boy Art Show:

One of the standouts for me was John Chisem III (@johnchisemiii). Seeing his rendition of “Girl With a Pearl Earring” reimagined in the likeness of a Black woman stopped me in my tracks. It was the kind of piece that feels familiar and brand new at the same time. It wasn’t just the technical skill; it was the care in the details, for me. Additionally, the way the work demanded a longer look was captivating. That single moment felt like the show’s mission in motion. It honored legacy while creating space for Black imagination to be centered and celebrated.

And the best part was that Atlanta gave me discovery without losing the comfort of familiarity. We found a new artist too — Monsieur LaMont (@mssr.lamont) — who stole our hearts with his piece “Sweetback’s Return.”

We also got to see favorites from D.C., including Cameron Lewis (@Cal Art) and Sam (@Sam Sins). It felt good to witness how their work held its own in a different city with a different energy.

I even walked away with prints from Lewis — because some pieces just don’t let you leave empty-handed.

Overall, the show was exceptionally well done: thoughtful curation, strong storytelling, and a vibe that made it easy to linger, connect, and leave feeling like you’d been part of something bigger than a weekend outing.