The Shipley Showcase reflected the variety of artmakers that share our space, their dynamic practices, and their deep sense of community.
Shipley Showcase’s multimedia artists unite poetry, fashion, performance and visual art with an emphasis on collaboration, community, and creativity. These artists engage with broader themes affecting our communities, such as societal pressures and self expression. In this exhibition, their artworks engaged in conversation with each other and create conversation within our community.
Curated by Mira Estell and Jillian Pini.
Chris White Gallery is fortunate to share a building with the Shipley Lofts, home to 20+ resident artists.
Each artist brings their own unique perspective and style of artmaking to the building’s community. Our shared space allows for collaboration between working artists and our gallery. The goal of our first biannual Shipley Showcase is to platform these talented local artists and neighbors that live and work in Shipley Lofts.
By creating spaces for conversation, collaboration and creativity, we can further support each other as creatives, people, and members of a shared community. Please join us in celebrating and engaging these talented artists.
Four Featured Artists
David Harris – visual art and poetry
David Harris is a talented artist who practices a few different mediums; spoken word, visual art, photography and graphic art. He has a passion to support other artists and has stretched his borders by developing platforms that allow other artists to grow and showcase their talent as well. Using JustDavid as a stage name, he stands out as a unique talent; one who understands the importance of lifting up community and helping fellow artists realize their potential.
Janice King – visual and wearable art
Rebirth. Rejoice. Create… is her motto and after six decades, Janice King has finally arrived at the very point she started from!
Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, as a child she experienced art as a natural expression of herself. She drew, colored, drafted stories and embraced all forms of creativity. But family and friends steered her into the “more realistic” direction of corporate America, and she reluctantly followed. Even during those bleak years, she was not able to beat back the artist within and expressed herself through color, dress, and décor.
At the ripe age of sixty, Janice finally freed her artistic self. It took a life changing situation for her “aha” moment to explosively shine forth and she triumphantly emerged as a self-taught visual artist. At this moment, Janice King Art: Rebirth. Rejoice. Create… was born.
Janice paints using bold acrylic color on canvas, creating vibrant images of Black women, scenic views, still life as well as abstract designs. She has exhibited her art in NYC and Delaware, her new home state. Janice has created art prints, home décor, and lifestyle products from her art. Through popular demand, Janice also creates wearable art from her original works and has shown them on catwalks in NYC and Delaware. Most notably her wearable art was recently featured at the Billie Holiday Theatre and The Kings County Supreme Court’s Annual Fashion Show in NYC, and Chris White Gallery-ART IN MOTION in Delaware. Janice has partnered with Morgan’s of Delaware Women’s Boutique in Wilmington, DE which now carries Janice King Art-wearable art fashions.
Chad Williams – visual and wearable art
Chad Williams is a creative entrepreneur based in Wilmington, DE, and the founder of Socially Wasted, a lifestyle brand rooted in the tagline “Think Responsibly.” Known for seamlessly blending fashion, culture, and storytelling, Chad creates work that explores individuality and challenges societal norms. His brand reflects his innovative approach to merging thought-provoking themes with contemporary design.
As a creative force, Chad collaborates with artists and musicians, pushing boundaries across multiple disciplines. His ability to connect visual and cultural elements has positioned him as a standout voice in the modern fashion landscape. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to authenticity, Chad ensures that each project resonates deeply with audiences, sparking conversation and connection.
Driven by a passion for creativity, Chad’s work continues to inspire others to embrace originality while thinking critically about the world around them, making him a true innovator in his field.
Christian Wills – visual art, poetry and lyrics
Christian Wills is an artist, poet, lyricist and 2020 University of Delaware graduate. Under the alias “Anthem”, Christian has written and performed countless pieces, hosted a variety of open mic shows, and become a part of the Wilmington arts community. With a B.A. in English, Christian now uses his talents and degree to teach and facilitate in various non-profit organizations. His goals for the future are to become a college professor, integrate arts and education, own a nonprofit centered on inner-city youth, and pursue a full-time artist career.
Schedule
- Friday, December 6, 2024, 5-8pm, First Art Loop Reception.
- Friday, January 3, 2025, 5-8pm, Second Art Loop Reception.
- Sunday, January 12, 2025, Noon-1pm, Coffee Hour at the Gallery.
- Friday, January 17, 2025, 5-8pm, Closing Reception.
