Arlo Hotels Living Room Gallery Series with Halim Flowers
Last week, I attended the Arlo Hotels Living Room Gallery series at Arlo Williamsburg, formerly known as The Williamsburg Hotel. The event featured the compelling artwork of Halim Flowers and offered a delightful blend of fine cocktails, exquisite cuisine, and engaging conversations with a diverse group of attendees.
A standout moment was Halim Flowers’ captivating artist talk, where he shared his deep passion for art and left a lasting impression on everyone present. The evening was a memorable blend of inspiration and culinary delights that will be cherished for years to come.
About the Event
On the evening of July 17th, The Lobby Bar at Arlo Williamsburg transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity. By 6 PM, the chic venue buzzed with art enthusiasts from near and far, gathered to experience the latest in contemporary art as part of the Arlo Hotels Living Room Gallery series. Laughter and conversation filled the air as guests admired Halim Flowers’ thought-provoking exhibition, “Art is the Nexus.”
During the artist talk, Jasmine Arakel, curator of the Arlo Living Room series, introduced the exhibition and provided insights into its theme. Avalon Ashley of Bellos of DTR Modern Gallery then took the stage to discuss Halim Flowers’ work. She highlighted the essence of the collection and the artist’s remarkable ability to use art as a dynamic tool for movement, color, and enlightenment. Ashley emphasized the often-overlooked significance of color in self-expression and concluded by noting how Flowers masterfully transforms sorrow into triumph.
Artist Talk with Halim Flowers
In an unexpected shift from the planned Q&A, the artist took the stage and spoke with grace and gratitude. He expressed his delight at being part of the Arlo Williamsburg event and extended heartfelt thanks to everyone for their presence, with special acknowledgment to his mentor for their support.
Flowers shared his journey, reflecting on how love, recognition of his intrinsic worth, and a shift in mindset allowed him to transcend dehumanizing labels. He described this transformation as nothing short of miraculous.
A lifelong learner with a range of interests from physics to poetry, Flowers finds inspiration in diverse experiences. His collection “Art is the Nexus” was born from his speaking engagement at the Nexus Conference in New York City.
The Power of Influence
Flowers addressed the lack of positive role models during his upbringing and its profound impact on his community. He recounted turning to selling drugs at the age of 12 driven by the lack of accessible role models. Additionally, Flowers highlighted alarming statistics about the median household net worth for African Americans and Latinos, projecting that these figures could potentially drop to zero by 2053 and 2073, respectively. He urged listeners to educate themselves and view art as a valuable asset, especially given its unregulated status globally. He envisions homes as spaces where wealth can be built and positive influence can flourish.
His speech resonated deeply with many, emphasizing that it is not just about experiences but the choices made in the moment. It is about making contributions that leave a lasting impact on the world.
Halim Flowers
About the Artist
Halim Flowers, once unfairly labeled as a “Superpredator” and sentenced to life imprisonment at the age of 16, has defied his troubled past to emerge as a powerful force in the world of art. After spending 22 years behind bars, he honed his craft by blending photography, painting, poetry, and spoken word into a unique expression. His creative journey was not just about self-expression but a quest for peace amidst adversity.
Guided by a philosophy rooted in love, Flowers uses his art to advocate for compassion. Through his work, he aims to break down barriers and encourage others to acknowledge and embrace the threads that bind humanity together.
Halim Flowers’s ascent in the art scene has been marked by acclaim and recognition. His participation in the Venice Biennale solidified his position as a contemporary artist. Renowned for his TEDx Talk on reforming the criminal justice system, Flowers captivates audiences globally with his dedication to excellence and social equity.
Transformation
The trajectory of Flowers’ career is a testament to his remarkable transformation. From his conviction in 1997 to his release in 2019 under a revised juvenile resentencing law—a pivotal moment captured in Kim Kardashian West’s documentary “The Justice Project”—Flowers has become a symbol of hope and resilience. His artwork has been featured in prestigious exhibitions, including The Museum of Modern Art’s “Marking Time: Art in the Age of Mass Incarceration.”
To further solidify his influence, Flowers has received fellowships from the Halcyon Arts Lab and Echoing Green. His academic pursuits with the Georgetown University Prison and Justice Initiative, guided by Professor Marc Morjé Howard, underscore his commitment to intellectual development. Recently, awarded a grant from the Art for Justice Fund, Flowers was also highlighted as a “Justice Ambassador” in the film “Halim’s Hope” [2020], continuing his quest to advocate for love and justice through his art.
About the Exhibit
“Art is the Nexus”
Curated by Jasmine Arakel, “Art is the Nexus” stands out as the highlight of the Arlo Living Room Gallery series. This exhibit aligns with the series’ goal of bringing art typically confined to museums, galleries, and private collections into the vibrant spaces of Arlo Hotels across New York City.
Halim Flowers’ latest exhibition is both captivating and transformative. “Art is the Nexus” prominently showcases his work, offering a profound experience that delves into the connections that bind us all.
Flowers’ artistic expressions highlight art’s power to bridge gaps and weave a shared narrative, akin to language. His pieces resonate deeply, inviting viewers to move beyond the ordinary and engage with a more profound, universally understood bond.
Arlo’s Living Room Gallery series
About the Program
The Arlo Living Room Gallery Series brings art into an accessible and dynamic space, making top-tier artworks both captivating and approachable. Explore, discuss, and even acquire pieces for your collection in this inviting setting. Jasmine Arakel’s visionary approach is reshaping how art is presented, moving masterpieces typically found in museums and exclusive galleries into the vibrant lobbies of Arlo Hotels.
Launched in 2023, the Arlo Living Room Gallery offers an exciting opportunity to experience and acquire art in a warm and interactive setting. From Manhattan to Brooklyn, Arlo Hotels now showcases a curated selection of artworks. This initiative, led by Jasmine Arakel, creates a space where emerging collectors can discover art in a welcoming environment. You’ll find pieces sourced from some of New York City’s top galleries and featured in renowned museums.
DTR Modern Gallery
About the Gallery
DTR Modern has been a trailblazer in the art world since opening its doors in 2003. With locations in Boston, New York City, Washington, DC, and Palm Beach, the gallery remains a prominent East Coast presence. It is renowned for its collection of master and post-war artists, while also supporting emerging talents and established names.
The gallery’s success is rooted in its deep connections within the art community, providing access to studios and archives. DTR Modern’s collection thrives on long-lasting relationships with artists and their estates. With over 125 years of collective experience, its expert consultants and seasoned directors are adept at guiding both seasoned collectors and newcomers through the art world.
Upcoming Exhibit
Arlo Midtown
The upcoming edition of the Arlo Living Room Gallery series is scheduled for Wednesday, August 21st, from 6 to 8 PM at Arlo Midtown. Known as one of New York City’s premier hotels, Arlo Midtown is thrilled to present its exhibition titled “Women,” showcasing the captivating paintings by Angels Grau.
Curated by Jasmine Arakel in collaboration with the Nicolas Auvray Gallery, this exhibit aims to bring art closer to the public. The Living Room Gallery series features a selection of art from renowned galleries in New York City, with past exhibitions featuring artists like Damien Hirst, Tyler Shields, Ewa Bathelier, and Brock DeBoer.
The opening reception promises an elegant evening with signature cocktails from Arlo Midtown, live music by a DJ, and the thought-provoking artwork of Angels Grau.
The “Women” exhibit showcases faceless portraits of women, exuding a sense of passive defiance. This collection celebrates women worldwide who strive to enhance society through their resilience. The artworks are thoughtfully chosen to resonate with the hotel’s unique ambiance and cultural identity. To RSVP for this event, please visit Eventbrite.
My Visit to Arlo Williamsburg
An Inspiring Experience
Attending the Arlo Hotels Living Room Gallery series at Arlo Williamsburg was a truly uplifting experience. The blend of exceptional talent, engaging conversations, and the venue’s inviting atmosphere created a memorable evening. Halim Flowers’ exhibit, “Art is the Nexus,” was both moving and thought-provoking. His journey from overcoming adversity to becoming a beacon of hope through his art deeply resonated with everyone present. The artist’s discussion was particularly impactful, offering profound insights into the transformative power of art and personal growth.
Flowers’ narrative and artwork were standout features of the event, highlighting themes of resilience, love, and the potential for change. The Arlo Living Room Gallery series is a remarkable initiative that brings art to life in a warm and welcoming setting. I look forward to seeing the continued creativity and inspiration that Arlo Hotels will bring to its community and the art world.
Do not miss the opportunity to experience this fusion of art and culture. Visit the Arlo Living Room Gallery series to explore the works of artists like Halim Flowers and witness the vibrant energy and artistic brilliance that Arlo Hotels brings to the community. Plan your visit today and be part of this enriching journey.
