Creative Arts Workshop proudly presents Made Visible: Unveiled Roots, the latest installment of its celebrated Black History Month series. Running from January 25 through March 1, 2025, the exhibition showcases the compelling work of New Haven native Marquis Brantley Sr., a contemporary artist and 2024-2025 New Haven Artist Corps recipient. The public is invited to the opening reception on Friday, January 31, from 5 to 7 PM, featuring refreshments, a live DJ, and a guest performer.
Made Visible: Unveiled Roots shares the deeply personal and profound stories of Black men and boys who have shaped Brantley’s life. Through mixed-media portrait paintings and audio interviews, Brantley reveals their dynamic dimensions, showcasing their resilience, strength, and visions of prosperity. These works expand their narratives while holding the tension of a world that seeks to diminish or erase them. In this exhibition, Brantley invites viewers into a broader series of portraits of Black boys and men, offering a poignant and celebratory perspective.
“This exhibition amplifies voices and stories that are too often overlooked, yet they are central to understanding our shared humanity,” said Brantley. “Each portrait is a tribute to the men who have left a lasting impact on my life, and through their stories, I hope others find inspiration and strength.”
Brantley, a self-taught artist, uses his practice to reveal the innate brilliance within every individual. His studio is a sanctuary where art becomes a powerful journey of self-exploration and joyous recognition. His work celebrates the capacity of Black men and boys to rise above adversity, find their voices, and act on their passions—transforming narratives of struggle into visions of hope.
This exhibition is supported by Artist Corps New Haven and continues CAW’s “Made Visible” series, now in its sixth year. Previous exhibitions in the series include Made Visible: Origins of Belonging (2024), Made Visible: Freedom Dreams (2023), and Made Visible: Streetside Windows (2020). The series celebrates the art and lives of Black and Brown artists who are traditionally underrepresented in gallery spaces.
The Hilles Gallery at Creative Arts Workshop is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Monday – Friday from 10AM to 7 PM and Saturday from 10 AM – 4 PM. All are welcome to experience this dynamic and thought-provoking exhibition.