Jabari Reed-Diop AKA iBOMS
Son Sign
FloridaRAMA Gallery hosted the solo exhibition Son Sign by St. Pete artist Jabari Reed-Diop (AKA iBOMS) from July 6th to July 28th, 2024. This exhibition explored Reed-Diop's spiritual and metaphorical journey, highlighting his use of wordplay and symbolism to delve into themes of the zodiac, family roles, and faith. Through his art, Reed-Diop, a Leo, examined his identity as a son and his commitment to spreading peace and joy, referencing Christ-like acts and light.
Jabari Reed-Diop's work blends traditional religious iconography with contemporary imagery and painting techniques, inviting viewers to join his profound journey. The exhibition included events such as a media preview, opening reception, artist conversation, and a soulful food and art celebration. Reed-Diop's Joy For All installation is also on view at the FloridaRAMA Experience and Tampa International Airport.
MIZE
BLISS!
In June 2024, The Factory invited Chad Mize to curate an exhibit in their main gallery space. Over the past six years, MIZE had curated various PRIDE exhibits such as PRIDE & JOY, ICONS, DON'T ASK. DO TELL, RAINBOW, SAY GAY, and HOT BOX, which highlighted the political struggles faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. For this exhibit, MIZE shifted the focus to BLISS, a state of complete happiness or joy.
The exhibit featured works from 40 visual artists and 5 literary artists, exploring the theme of bliss. Participating artists included Andrea Pawlisz, Amy Ilic-volpe, Angela Warren, Artist Jones, Bask, Caelan Jeffery, Cake Marques, Calan Ree, Camilo Loaiza Bonilla, Chad Jacobs, Chad Mize, Charley Soderbergh, Cristi Lopez, David Kafer, Domenico Pontoriero, Emmett Freeman, Eric Doctors, Ethan Early, Ezra Sembler, James E. Hartzell, Jay Hoff, Jeb Katsiopis, Joey Vitale, John Gascot, Katie Niewodowski, Keifer Calkins, Lucky Leroy, Macy Eats Paint, Mark Williams, Mikeybear Mcgrath, Nathan Truly, Nelson Perez Jr., Nova Fro, Palm Nguyen, Perry Devick, Rhys Meatyard, Saumitra Chandratrya, Spencer Meyers, Summer Elaine Hue, Tate Leigh, Tommy Bayot, Tyler Gillespie, and Wasil. The opening reception was held on June 7th, 2024, followed by a BLISS! Poetry Night on June 8th during ArtWalk.
