Events

Purvis Young: The Onliest Thing I Could Mostly Do aims to celebrate the life and work of the renowned self-taught artist, Purvis Young. Born in Liberty City, but a resident of Overtown, Miami, Young was known for his vibrant, folk art. Focused on storytelling, Young’s works explored social, racial, and political themes. This exhibition will feature a diverse range of Young's artworks, including paintings and mixed-media pieces. Some works were donated by The Law Firm of Seiler, Sautter, Zaden, Rimes & Wahlbrink; Curated by Tayina Deravile.

Exhibition artwork will be installed in the BaCA Central and East Galleries.

Opening artist reception will be held on January 5th 2024 during Old Town Untapped, click here to register.

About the Artist

Purvis Young was an American artist born on February 4, 1943, in the Overtown neighborhood of Miami, Florida. He was a self-taught artist who developed a unique style of painting that blended elements of collage, folk art, and social commentary. Young's works often depicted scenes of everyday life in Overtown, a predominantly Black community in Miami. He used bright colors, bold patterns, and found objects to create vibrant and energetic compositions that captured the spirit of his community. FATVillage Arts District FATVillage Arts District is an arts district whose purpose is to promote the creation, exhibition, curation, research, and education of emerging, contemporary artists. Founded in 2012, by property owners Doug McCraw and Lutz Hofbauer, FATVillage Arts District was created to rally philanthropic support around sustaining an artist community. FATVillage generates an inclusive arts community that reinforces cross-disciplinary collaboration and experimentation. Currently, the four-block arts district where the nonprofit was housed is under development. In its interim, FATVillage Arts District implements nomadic programming initiatives, fostering engagement and artistic expression within the local community.