The San Diego artist’s canvases danced with swirling patterns of bright colors. In one of her pieces, titled “The Threads That Bind,” dozens of whirling strands of color intertwined around five different figures.
“We just want to celebrate Black artistry here in San Diego,” said Liberation Through Art founder Noelle Ocen-Odoge. “To tell people, especially Black San Diegans, that there is space for you to showcase your work.”Ocen-Odoge, a photographer and multidisciplinary artist, founded her organization earlier this year after her own art helped her overcome struggles with mental health. Her long-term goal is to create an institute dedicated to Black art and health programming.
“The arts community has always been strong, not just in Chula Vista, but in South Bay,” Veal said. “It's a beautiful and vibrant community that's always welcomed everyone into its arms, no matter what.”