An exhibition by Marc Andre
Curated by John Wesley
July 6 - 12 at Nii Modo.
Presented by City of Light.
1404 3rd Ave Seattle, WA
Opening Reception: July 6, 630pm-930pm
Featuring music by DJ: La Mala Noche
Hosted by actress Kimi Rutledge
Sponsored by BOOK’D
Marc Andre is a French-American multidisciplinary artist whose work spans a range of mediums, including painting, drawing, music, and film. Born in Toulouse, France in 1991, Andre grew up in Paris, where he developed a passion for art through visits to museums and traveling across Pan-African regions with his mother.
At the age of 14, he moved to the United States to join his father and pursue a new life, immersing himself in the underground hip-hop scene in Washington D.C. as a self-taught producer and rapper.
In 2015, Andre moved to New York City to further his artistic career. His paintings have been widely recognized and have found their way into esteemed collections, such as those owned by Tim Okamura, Julia Lang, and Westside Gunn.
Umi Says is an exhibition of Andre's latest works, presented by City of Light Gallery and on view at Nii Modo in downtown Seattle.
The exhibition explores the ancient African philosophy which emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all human beings, highlighting the importance of community and collective well-being.
This philosophy is embodied in the phrase "I am because we are," embracing the idea that our individual flourishing is intimately tied to our connection with others.
In the same vein, Marc Andre's work delves into the deeply introspective and personal realm of desire, often exploring the ways in which we conceal and reveal our own wants and needs. Through this exploration, Umi Says offers a unique perspective on the harmony between personal desire and communal flourishing.
Umi Says is an emotionally resonant and universally accessible exhibition that features a diverse range of Andre's work. From striking large-scale paintings on canvas to smaller detailed studies on paper, Andre engages viewers with powerful themes and masterful execution.
Through his evocative use of color, texture, and form, Andre's Umi Says exhibition invites viewers to engage with his work on a personal and emotional level. The exhibition offers a rich and thought-provoking reflection on the human experience and our universal need for connection, belonging, and understanding.
City of Light Gallery was established in 2020, with doors officially opening in 2021. City of Light is a globally minded, locally rooted cultural institution dedicated to "illuminating the world" through collaborating with the most prolific, profound, and compelling artists of our time.
Founded by Afro/Indigenous curators, the gallery is centered around telling the stories of diverse communities in Seattle and throughout the world. in 2023, city of light has curated exhibitions in Mexico city, New York city, and Seattle, WA.
City of light Gallery is an official community partner of Seattle art museum.
King 5 new day has featured exhibitions by City of Light including: Bakeneko, Rya Wu, Paul Cole, and Seattle Art Museum's DEI Director Priya Frank.
Nii Modo is an inclusive art space that strives to share work by underrepresented artists and first time exhibitors. Nii Modo presents exhibits that are deeply honest, by artists who share insight and passion. It is the ongoing project of a team that makes use of underutilized real estate in Seattle and beyond. Unlike commercial art spaces, Nii Modo has no profit-driven goals.
We simply want to sustain our space while making sure rental fees stay low and the highest percentage of sales go straight to artists and musicians. We’re open to new ways of doing things and ready to hear your ideas regarding how we can improve. Our mission is to provide the type of community and solidarity that heals the microaggressions you sustain outside.
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Introducing the limited edition 100% cotton art flex by Marc Andre, created exclusively for his momentous debut exhibition in the Pacific Northwest. With only 100 pieces available, this tee embodies the fusion of art and style that defines Marc Andre's visionary work.
Crafted from premium cotton, every detail exudes meticulous craftsmanship and artistic flair. Embrace the boldness and individuality of Marc Andre's art with this wearable masterpiece, elevating your wardrobe to gallery-worthy status. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of art history.
