January 31 - March 8, 2025
Opening reception: Friday, January 31st - 4 to 7pm
Zolla/Lieberman Gallery is proud to present Purvis Young: Messenger of Salvation and Liberation celebrating the vibrant work of self-taught artist Purvis Young. The exhibition will be on view from January 31st to March 8th, featuring the many aspects of Young's practice including large-scale paintings on found wood, works on paper, and various ephemera such as sketch books and small sculptures.
Purvis Young (1943–2010), often referred to as the "Picasso of the Ghetto," emerged from the Overtown neighborhood of Miami, FL where his art transformed discarded materials into profound visual narratives of hope, struggle, and resilience. Known for his unique fusion of street art and fine art, Young's works feature recurring motifs such as angels, horses, and bustling cityscapes, serving as metaphors for freedom, community, and the human spirit.
Young's association with the Wall of Respect mural in Chicago marked a significant moment in his career, connecting his artistic voice to a broader movement celebrating Black culture and identity. The Wall of Respect, created in 1967 by the Organization of Black American Culture (OBAC), was a symbol of pride and activism, and Young's contribution to this iconic project further cemented his role as a storyteller for marginalized communities.
Working primarily with found materials like scrap wood, cardboard, and discarded canvases, Young used bold colors and repetitive motifs—such as angels, horses, and urban landscapes—to convey a sense of hope amid adversity. His work gained national and international recognition in the 1980s, earning spots in prestigious collections, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Purvis Young's art remains a testament to the power of creativity to transcend circumstances and give voice to the marginalized, making him one of the most important figures in contemporary outsider art.
