Repose: Alanis Forde + Akilah Watts, Curated by John Wolf

Exhibition Dates: May 18th- June 25th, 2022

Opening: Wednesday, May 18th @11am-6pm

103 Allen Street, Lower East Side

1969 Gallery presents, in collaboration with John Wolf, Repose, a two-person exhibition featuring the works of Alanis Forde and Akilah Watts, both artists-in-residence at Mana Contemporary. Our collective experience of repose has transformed throughout history. During a time when perspectives on labor and stillness are in deep flux, here we receive a glimpse into the cultural projection of repose as these two Barbadian artists reflect their lived experience of growing up in an “island paradise”.

Both hailing from Barbados and currently working out of New Jersey, Alanis Forde and Akilah Watts' works are centered around the Barbadian experience, bridging the gap between the realistic and the idealistic views of Barbados. Alanis Forde’s works specifically question the idea of escapism, and what it means to grow up in a place that is considered a vacation spot for the rest of the world. Forde creates a continuous dialogue between the figures and the paradise that they are submerged in. The use of dotted textures and vibrant patterns allows the viewer’s eye to be in constant motion, transporting them into paradisiacal spaces. The recurring figures are called proxies and are characterized by their blue dotted skin and red lips. These proxies navigate these landscapes documenting the essence of what it means to be both trapped and free of paradise. Akilah Watts’ works are more focused on identity and belonging, using personal experiences as the inspiration for her works. Watts uses imagery such as fruits and vegetables, the Barbadian folklore character, Mother Sally, along with landscapes and prints traditionally found on fabric in old Barbadian homes. One of the goals in the works is to instill a feeling of nostalgia and curiosity, allowing the viewer to be entranced in a style of Caribbean art that feels familiar and relatable.

We are excited to showcase the works of these two artists in collaboration with John Wolf at our Lower East Side gallery space.

For inquiries, please contact: 

Amanda Barker (amanda@1969gallery.com)

About 1969 Gallery

Founded in September 2016, 1969 is a contemporary art gallery, with two gallery spaces in Manhattan’s Lower East Side and Tribeca neighborhoods. Through solo / group / external exhibitions and art fair presentations, the Gallery has cultivated the careers of its represented artists and a broader community of artists primarily devoted to painting.

Follow 1969 Gallery on Instagram via @1969gallery.