MOTHER OF A MOVEMENT: HOW PATRICIA ANDREWS-KEENAN IS BUILDING A BLACK ART MOVEMENT ROOTED IN CHICAGO
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By Tacuma Roeback, Chicago Defender Managing Editor
Her mentees call her “Auntie.”
But it’s safe to say that Patricia Andrews-Keenan has helped mother a movement in Chicago — centering Black artists and building sustainable communities for them to thrive.
As the founder of Pigment International, a Chicago-based platform uplifting Black contemporary art and culture, Andrews-Keenan has spent the last seven years using her corporate, media and storytelling background to connect artists, collectors, and communities across the globe. What started as a passion project in 2018 has since grown into a multilayered organization that publishes a print magazine, produces events and cultivates a digital network of Black creatives.
Andrews-Keenan said she was well past retirement age when she launched Pigment. But her journey — part collector, part communicator and now mentor — has made her a force within the art world and beyond.
CHICAGO ARTISTS’ WORK TO HANG IN SUPREME COURT CHAMBERS
Artists Paul Branton and Kristen Williams have achieved a rare and remarkable honor. Their collaborative piece, Worthy — a 24” x 18” work created in 2022 using acrylic, oil, and pastel on gesso board — will soon hang within the prestigious chambers of the United States Supreme Court. The two artists were present earlier this year when Supreme Court of the United States Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson visited Chicago for a book signing. Now, it’s been confirmed that Worthy will join Justice Jackson’s private collection and be permanently housed in her SCOTUS chambers.
ARTISTS iNDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME
This past weekend, Chicago Vocational School honored the achievements of two of its distinguished alumni by inducting artists Kevin Williams and Thomas Williams (no relation) into its Hall of Fame, alongside renowned Chicago architectural critic Lee Bey.
Members of the Class of 1983, both artists have carved unique and influential paths in the visual arts, while remaining deeply rooted in the experiences that shaped them on Chicago’s South Side.
Kevin Williams, now based in Atlanta, was celebrated in 2024 with a solo exhibition at Connect Gallery titled Then and Now, a compelling retrospective chronicling his life, creative evolution, and the cultural backdrop of his upbringing in Chicago. The show served as a powerful reflection on identity, growth, and artistic legacy.
Thomas Williams, whose portrait work is widely recognized for its bold, stylized approach, has exhibited across the country. His work centers on themes of social justice and the representation of historic and often overlooked Black figures. Through his art, Thomas amplifies stories that challenge and inspire, offering a rich visual narrative of cultural pride and historical awareness. His work can be explored further at eyehaveavision.com and artbywak.com.
The Hall of Fame induction not only acknowledges their individual accomplishments but also underscores the power of art to transcend boundaries and transform communities. Their success stands as an inspiration to current students and a proud moment for Chicago Vocational School’s legacy.
Celebrate Black Artistry at BALA 2025
Join ILA Creative Studio for the annual Black Art Love Affair (BALA) — an immersive evening honoring the power and impact of Black artists in Chicago. This year’s theme, Reflection, invites guests to experience curated installations, live performances, a vibrant awards ceremony, and community rooted in creativity and care.
Saturday, June 7 | 6–9 PM
Taste 222 | 222 N. Canal, Chicago
Cocktail attire encouraged | Sponsored drinks + hors d’oeuvres
Come celebrate the artists shaping our city’s cultural future.
WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR 13TH ANNUAL BRIDGEPORT ART COMPETITION AND EXHIBITION
The Bridgeport Art Center (BAC) has announced the winners of its 13th Annual Bridgeport Art Competition and Exhibition. Selected from a pool of 561 completed applications, this year’s top artists were chosen by esteemed jurors Rose Blouin and Sarah Spencer.
Best in Show
Morgan Nicolette — The Huntress, Oil on wooden panel, 2024, 70” x 50”
Second Prize
Dawn Liddicoatt — Trappings #6, Stoneware, oxides, 2023, 12” x 9” x 9”
Third Prize
Jean Lewis — Criss Cross, Pastel & pastel pencil, 2025, 27” x 23”
This year’s exhibition showcases the dynamic work of 103 talented regional artists across a range of media including painting, drawing, photography, assemblage, sculpture, printmaking, fiber, digital, and mixed media. The 13th Annual Art Competition highlights the vibrant diversity and inclusivity that defines contemporary art today.
As part of the opening celebration during Third Fridays at the Center, visitors also had the opportunity to cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award. The exhibition remains on view through June 27th.
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