A museum is only as good as the artists on its walls, and CultureCon’s “Museum of Us” had no shortage of them.
Every year, Imani Ellis and her team bring thousands of people together for what has become the biggest homecoming for creatives. And while CultureCon attendees are known for showcasing their creativity through their style, this year, dozens of artists transformed the creative playground into an unforgettable art gallery. In collaboration with Black Girl Art Show and Black Boy Art Show, CultureCon infused Black artwork throughout its stage design and activations.
Whether you stopped to stare at their work, snapped a photo of it, posed in front of it, or admired it without ever catching the name behind it, here are 13 artists whose artwork brought “Museum of Us” to life.
Kyle Olani Adams
Kyle Olani Adams’ emotional charcoal drawings were featured on the conference’s stages and in various activations at CultureCon. The 25-year-old visual artist and creative director works with his distinct style and ability to play with details and light to explore themes of identity, culture, and experience
Dwight White II
A multi-disciplinary artist, Dwight White II describes himself as a culture architect and the creator of Artrepreneurship, “a visionary framework that bridges fine art, emotional resonance, and entrepreneurial excellence.” Through his art which appeared on CultureCon’s stages, White II spotlights the intersection of storytelling, sociology, and the psychology of Black identity.
Jamie Monroe – Monroe 88
Jamie Monroe, whose artist name is Monroe 88, creates paintings that capture the complexities of human experience and celebrate the beauty of being different through a retro-futuristic lens.
Ashley Posey – Jorja Zee
A Harlem-based illustrator, Ashley Posey is the founder of Jorja Zee, a brand she describes as “a love letter to identity and imagination.” Fusing vibrant colors, whimsy, and elements of Black culture, Posey’s Jorja Zee honors the legacies of her grandmothers Georgia and Zereeal.
Kayra Theordore
Haitian-American artist Kayra Theordore showcased her artistry through an exhibit of photos and pieces from her hair show “Untied.” Known for her hair art, the showcase featured unique bows and designs all created with hair and inspired by her heritage and relationship with her hair growing up.
Karim Chambers – Rim the Artist
Karim Chambers (a.k.a Rim the Artist) describes his art as a “celebration of the rich and diverse history and culture of my community.” Through his paintings, Chambers spotlights the power of Black communities while grounding himself in the tradition of African American portraiture which has been used to show the strength, beauty, and resilience of Black people.
Ashley Chew
Ashley Chew’s artwork spotlighting Black hair appeared on CultureCon’s main stage and was showcased throughout the conference. A Chicago-born, New York-based artist, Chew is a fine artist and illustrator who bridges the gap between visually striking fine art, sports, fashion and culture.
Jo Lewis
Blending traditional art with cultural narratives, tactile materials, and interactive experiences, Jo Lewis creates art that invites viewers to engage with their eyes and hands. Her use of bold colors and tactile elements spotlights layers of Black culture, identity, and African heritage to educate, engage, and encourage reflection among diverse audiences. Lewis’ work appeared on stage and hung on the walls of CultureCon.
Lacy Talley
A multidisciplinary artist from Cleveland, Ohio, Lacy Talley says her “artistic practice is driven by a profound mission: to explore the depths of self-awareness and foster grounding and coping mechanisms through the transformative power of art.” Her Crystal Lady sculptures appeared on CultureCon’s stage, representing spiritual healing, abundance, and prosperity. Her work was also featured in CultureCon’s art show.
Paul Johnson – Paulofame
Paul Johnson, a.k.a Paulofame’s celebrity portraits were also seen during this year’s Culturecon. A self-taught artists from Queens, Johnson’s work is inspired by people, sports and other creatives.
Dr. Ashley Brown
An artist and educator, Dr. Ashley Brown (@picassabrown) is a mixed media artist who uses vibrant colors to spotlight the beauty of Black culture and people.
Reginald Lewis – Insanely Dope Designs
Specializing in paintings, murals, and public artwork, Reginald Lewis’ artwork aims to inspire, connect, and leave a lasting impact. A Baltimore native and educator, Lewis uses his art as part of his advocacy for inner-city youth.
Alhou Sarré
Alhou Sarré is a Senegalese artist based in Brooklyn whose art lives at the interaction of culture, identity, place, and emotion. Through his pieces, he invites communities to reflect on the beauty of cultural diversity and embraces humanism.
