Restoring the Past, Building the Future: 

  • The First Universalist Church of Denver Art Committee invites Black artists to submit work for an upcoming exhibition honoring Black History Month. Centered on the theme Restoring the Past, Building the Future: The Freedom and Diversity of Black Expression, this exhibition aims to celebrate the rich tapestry of Black identity, creativity, and resilience. 

    We have created space for artists to showcase the multifaceted nature of Black experiences. It acknowledges the ongoing work to confront racism and systemic oppression while celebrating the freedom to reflect on joy, innovation, history, beauty, and social justice. We seek art that challenges stereotypes, embraces individuality, and inspires dialogue about the past, present, and future. Additionally, we are partnering with the Colorado Photographic Arts Center (CPAC) for printing of photographic works for the exhibition as we celebrate and extend into the Month of Photography. 

    The exhibition aligns with the church’s commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and fostering a diverse, inclusive community as guided by the 1st and 8th principles of Unitarian Universalism. 

    We welcome submissions from all artists who identify as Black and working in all mediums, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, digital art, textiles, and performance art. Artists at all career stages, from emerging to established, are encouraged to participate. Up to 5 entries, no fee.

    Juror, Yvens Alex Saintil, will select three pieces for cash awards.

    Accepted works will be exhibited in Denver from Feb. 2 - March 30, 2025 at: 

    Denver Voice 989 Santa Fe
    First Universalist Church 4101 East Hampden
    SAME Cafe 2023 East Colfax

  • Yvens Alex Saintil is a Haitian-born multidisciplinary artist whose work delves into themes of identity, systemic injustice, and community resilience. Based in Denver, Colorado, Saintil channels his lived experiences as a Black man, immigrant, and U.S. Army veteran into art that bridges deeply personal narratives with broader social critiques. A Purple Heart recipient and combat veteran, he transitioned to the arts with a steadfast commitment to fostering dialogue around racial justice, activism, and the power of community.

    Saintil’s practice spans photography, mixed media, digital manipulation, and visual journalism, focusing sharply on amplifying the voices of historically marginalized communities. His work has been featured in prominent exhibitions, including Through Their Lens at the Colorado Photographic Arts Center (2020), Black in Denver by Narkita Gold at the Arvada Center (2021), Yvens Alex Saintil at East Window (2022), and the Youth Art Exhibitions at RedLine Contemporary Art Center (2022–2024). Notably, his series Unrest in Denver captures the raw intensity and emotional depth of the 2020 protests, using candid and spontaneous compositions to immerse viewers in the atmosphere of collective action and solidarity.

    Saintil’s #UberInjustice: Mikey project exemplifies his ability to intertwine personal stories with systemic critique. Over 15 months, he documented the family of Michael Hancock, a Denver Uber driver charged with murder in a self-defense case. The resulting body of work offers an intimate and poignant portrait of resilience and humanity within a flawed legal system.

    Beyond his artistic practice, Saintil is a dedicated mentor and advocate. He has worked extensively with the Youth Art Mentoring program at RedLine Contemporary Art Center, empowering students to tackle complex social justice topics through creative expression. His community involvement extends to his contributions to Denver Voice, a vital publication supporting individuals navigating housing instability.

    Rooted in collaboration and authenticity, Saintil’s art reflects the profound influence of thinkers like bell hooks and James Baldwin, whose explorations of race, identity, and power deeply inform his creative vision. With a bold and transformative approach, Saintil challenges societal norms, ignites dialogue, and fosters meaningful connections with diverse audiences, using art as a powerful tool for healing and change.

  • January 10 midnight - Entries due
    January 15     - notification of jury status via email
    January 22-29 times TBD - deliver accepted entries to Denver Voice office or SAME Cafe (except photos printed by CPAC)
    February 2 midday - opening reception at
    First Universalist Church
    February 7 evening - first Friday at Denver Voice
    March 7 evening - first Friday at  Denver Voice
    Feb./March - possible gallery walk and film events
    February 2 - March 30 - show dates

The Freedom and Diversity of Black Expression