Detroit's beloved Norwest Gallery of Art is set to close its doors after eight years, but not before showcasing one final exhibit that celebrates the essence of water. The gallery, owned by Asia Hamilton, a renowned artist and community leader, will close on December 21, marking the end of an era for Detroit's arts scene.
Hamilton, who has poured her heart and soul into the gallery since its inception in 2017, announced her decision to shut down the space due to financial strain. However, she stresses that this closure is not taken lightly and was a necessary step to ensure the continued survival of the gallery as an institution. Hamilton credits the community's support for keeping the gallery open, but notes that it was time to "be practical" and prioritize financial sustainability.
The final exhibit, titled "Water," is a fitting tribute to the spirit of this essential element. Curated by Doug Jones, a self-proclaimed water enthusiast, the show brings together a diverse range of artists who explore the theme of water in their work. From paintings and sculptures to installations and photography, the exhibit is an immersive experience that invites viewers to contemplate the power and beauty of water.
Asia Hamilton's own contribution to the exhibit is a poignant reflection on her journey as an artist and community leader. Her artwork, which includes a stunning painting titled "Lusteration," explores themes of baptism, transformation, and connection. The piece is part of a larger narrative that celebrates the Yoruba Orisha Yemoja, a motherly deity associated with the ocean.
Hamilton's own story is one of perseverance and dedication to creating a space for emerging Black artists in Detroit. When she first launched Norwest Gallery, there were few opportunities for artists like her, who had to navigate a system that often favored those with established followings or connections. Over time, however, Hamilton's vision has helped fill this gap, paving the way for countless others to showcase their work.
As the gallery closes its doors, Asia Hamilton plans to continue her artistic endeavors in new and innovative ways. She will be hosting pop-up art installations and participating in upcoming events like Art Basel Miami Beach. Her legacy as a community leader and artist is cemented, leaving behind a lasting impact on Detroit's vibrant arts scene.
Hamilton, who has poured her heart and soul into the gallery since its inception in 2017, announced her decision to shut down the space due to financial strain. However, she stresses that this closure is not taken lightly and was a necessary step to ensure the continued survival of the gallery as an institution. Hamilton credits the community's support for keeping the gallery open, but notes that it was time to "be practical" and prioritize financial sustainability.
The final exhibit, titled "Water," is a fitting tribute to the spirit of this essential element. Curated by Doug Jones, a self-proclaimed water enthusiast, the show brings together a diverse range of artists who explore the theme of water in their work. From paintings and sculptures to installations and photography, the exhibit is an immersive experience that invites viewers to contemplate the power and beauty of water.
Asia Hamilton's own contribution to the exhibit is a poignant reflection on her journey as an artist and community leader. Her artwork, which includes a stunning painting titled "Lusteration," explores themes of baptism, transformation, and connection. The piece is part of a larger narrative that celebrates the Yoruba Orisha Yemoja, a motherly deity associated with the ocean.
Hamilton's own story is one of perseverance and dedication to creating a space for emerging Black artists in Detroit. When she first launched Norwest Gallery, there were few opportunities for artists like her, who had to navigate a system that often favored those with established followings or connections. Over time, however, Hamilton's vision has helped fill this gap, paving the way for countless others to showcase their work.
As the gallery closes its doors, Asia Hamilton plans to continue her artistic endeavors in new and innovative ways. She will be hosting pop-up art installations and participating in upcoming events like Art Basel Miami Beach. Her legacy as a community leader and artist is cemented, leaving behind a lasting impact on Detroit's vibrant arts scene.
I mean detroit has been through so much already and now we're losin one of the few spaces that truly reps the city's artistic vibe 
asia hamilton's done so much for this community it's crazy to think she had to close down the gallery due to financial struggles 
but at least she's makin moves, hosting pop-up art installations and all that 
can't wait to see what she does next 
its been such an amazing space for so many talented artists to show off their work... asia hamilton is literally the real MVP 
she poured her heart and soul into making this gallery a reality, and it was always about more than just her own art - its about community and giving ppl a platform to be seen. its not just about financials, its about the love and passion that goes into creating something special 
what a shame that we wont get to see more of asia's artwork in the future... maybe she'll pop up somewhere else 
Detroit just lost an amazing space for the arts... I'm sad to see Norwest Gallery go, but at least they're closing on their own terms 
The final exhibit "Water" sounds like a really cool way to celebrate this essential element - can't wait to check it out! 
. But let's be real, her final exhibit "Water" 
! I mean, who wouldn't want to see works by various artists exploring the power and beauty of water? It's like a celebration of life itself! 
Doug Jones' curation skills are on point, and Asia Hamilton's own contribution is literally breathtaking. Can't wait to check it out before it's too late 
. Only way forward for Asia is hosting pop-up art installations and events - she'll be killing the game still 
it's sad to see the Norwest Gallery of Art closing its doors after 8 years 
but i think asia hamilton made the right call 
she poured her heart and soul into that space and it's amazing what she accomplished 
meanwhile, the final exhibit "Water" sounds like an incredible celebration of this essential element 
i love how doug jones curated a diverse range of artists to explore water in their work 
it's a fitting tribute for asia hamilton's own contribution too 
her artwork, especially "Lusteration", is so poignant and reflective of her journey as an artist and community leader