Vibrant portraits line the walls of Fort Point Arts Community’s art space in South Boston. Located on the scenic waterfront, the “Artists of Tomorrow” exhibition brought together FPAC and Artists for Humanity to give artistic voices to young people.
Christine Vaillancourt, the FPAC President and Executive Director, expressed her excitement at the collaboration.
“We were thrilled by the idea of showcasing AFH’s talented young artists in our beautiful waterfront space as we deeply admire their mission,” said Vaillancourt.
AFH is a nonprofit organization that works to provide under-resourced teens with paid, professional art and design employment. This exhibit was part of an ongoing celebration of its 35th anniversary.
“Artists of Tomorrow” showcased portraits painted by teen artists in the AFH program from recent years.
“Each portrait stands as a testament to creative growth, personal exploration and the power of opportunity,” a panel on display at the exhibit read.
Vaillancourt noted how this exhibit benefited both FPAC and AFH.
“FPAC values collaborations with fellow local nonprofits, believing that by supporting one another, we can share ideas, inspire creativity and continue learning,” said Vaillancourt.
One portrait, “Inflame” by Hannah, used acrylic on canvas to express a strong side profile of a Black woman surrounded by burning candles. The artist used cool tones to depict the figure, which contrasted with the strong red background and bright yellow candles.
“Each portrait stands as a testament to creative growth, personal exploration and the power of opportunity,” the exhibit description read.
Another portrait, “Emergence” by Jackie, is an acrylic portrait of an AFH teen named Madeline. The painting depicts a young woman with sunlight dramatically falling across her body. She is surrounded by large leaves, and she looks unwaveringly at the viewer.
As the gallery panel stated, “Together [the portraits] tell a collective story of emerging identity, possibility and the vibrant future these young creatives are shaping for themselves and their communities.”
“2007” by Yaron is a self-portrait painted with acrylics on wood showing two people close together, both holding up peace signs with their fingers. They are surrounded by childish crayon drawings, such as a sun with a smiley face and the outline of a simple crown.
The AFH website describes how the program publicizes the teens’ art.
“During their time at AFH, teens share their voice in public art, where their creativity is valued,” said AFH.
Through its two waterfront galleries, FPAC consistently promotes Boston artists. As a nonprofit organization, they often focus on highlighting social and environmental issues. FPAC expresses its commitment to showcasing artists in its mission statement, as provided by Vaillancourt.
“FPAC has empowered hundreds of multidisciplinary artists each year by providing platforms to showcase their work in a sought-after neighborhood and by generating supplemental income through art sales, art loans and paid performances,” the mission statement read.
“Artists of Tomorrow” opened Feb. 6 and is on display until Apr. 10. It is located at the FPAC Art Space on the Boston waterfront, and admission is free.
