Author: rEN

An egg is a universal symbol of potential and rebirth—it contains within it the promise of life. The black egg, in particular represents a deeper mystery around the hidden aspects of hope. Its dark exterior might symbolize the unknown or the struggles we face, while the life within signifies the enduring possibility of growth and renewal. Just as an egg hatches into new life, hope “springs eternal” by reminding us that even in times of darkness or uncertainty, there’s the potential for transformation and brighter days ahead.

“Welcome Deja” a feminine voice from above said, her voice a soothing melody. “I am the spirit of the moon. You have been chosen to receive the wisdom of the cosmos.”

In the heart of the black forest, where the air shimmered with magic and the trees whispered ancient secrets, lived a young huntress named Amani. Her skin was the color of rich mahogany, and her eyes gleamed with determination. Amani was known throughout her village for her exceptional skill with an electric bow and arrow, a gift from the village elders that combined the wisdom of the past with the technology of the future. One early morning, as the first light of dawn filtered through the canopy, Amani set out on a hunt. Her family depended on her to bring back game, and she moved with the grace and silence of a shadow. The forest was alive with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant animal calls, but Amani’s focus was unwavering.Her electric bow, a marvel of engineering and enchantment, hummed softly in her hands.

The arrows, tipped with energy that crackled and sparked, were designed to stun rather than kill, ensuring that the balance of the forest was maintained. Amani’s respect for the forest and its inhabitants was evident in every step she took.As she moved deeper into the forest, she spotted her quarry: a majestic stag with antlers that seemed to glow with an inner light. Amani crouched low, her movements fluid and precise. She notched an arrow and drew back the bowstring, the electric current surging through the weapon.With a deep breath, she released the arrow. It flew through the air with a faint hum, striking the stag and enveloping it in a gentle, stunning light. The stag fell to the ground, unharmed but immobilized. Amani approached with reverence, whispering a prayer of thanks to the forest spirits.

“Dr. Welsing’s Fever Dream” by rEN Dillard is a profound artwork that resonates deeply with the ideals of Dr. Frances Cress Welsing, a renowned psychiatrist and author known for her work on racism and white supremacy. Dr. Welsing’s theories, particularly those presented in “The Isis Papers,” focus on the psychological and societal impacts of racism. She argued that white supremacy is a global system designed to maintain the genetic survival of white people by oppressing people of color. Her work emphasized the importance of understanding these dynamics to combat racism effectively. In “Dr. Welsing’s Fever Dream,”

Dillard uses his signature technique of layering precious metals, collage, and oil paint to create a visually striking piece that reflects these themes. The artwork’s dense, textured scenes and use of gold leaf symbolize the richness and complexity of black identity and experience.

The reflective quality of the precious metals invites viewers to see themselves within the narrative, emphasizing the personal and collective journey towards enlightenment and freedom.The piece can be seen as a visual representation of Dr. Welsing’s ideals, highlighting the ongoing struggle against systemic racism and the quest for self-awareness and empowerment among black individuals. By incorporating elements of Afrofuturism, Dillard not only honors Dr. Welsing’s legacy but also envisions a future where black identity is celebrated and liberated from the constraints of white supremacy.

Dr. Welsing’s Fever Dream, 2024Mixed Media Collage with Gold silver on Panel60 x 60 in (152.40 x 152.40 cm)

In the ethereal realm where moonbeams dance and stars whisper secrets, two luminous sisters, Deja and Zaire, glided gracefully across the night sky. Born from the moon’s heart, their light was pure and radiant, casting a serene glow over the world below. One night, as they drifted over a vast field of blue crystals, a deep yearning stirred within them—a desire to experience the earthly realm in human form.The moon, sensing their longing, bestowed upon them a rare gift. For one night, Deja and Zaire would take on human forms and explore the crystal field. As they descended, their celestial light transformed into two beautiful women, their hair shimmering like silver threads and their eyes reflecting the moon’s glow. They stood in awe, feeling the cool, crystalline ground beneath their feet, each step creating a symphony of delicate chimes.The field of blue crystals sparkled under the moonlight, casting an otherworldly glow that illuminated the night. Deja and Zaire wandered through this enchanted landscape, their laughter echoing like the sweetest music. They marveled at the beauty around them, the crystals’ azure light intertwining with their own ethereal essence, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow.As they ventured deeper into the field, they discovered a hidden grove where the crystals grew in intricate patterns, forming a natural labyrinth. At the grove’s center stood a magnificent copper tree, its branches reaching towards the sky, adorned with blossoms that glowed with a gentle blue light. Deja and Zaire felt a profound connection to this place, sensing the ancient magic that flowed through it.They sat beneath the crystal tree, sharing stories and dreams, their voices blending with the whispers of the night. They spoke of the moon’s wisdom, the stars’ secrets, and the beauty of the world they had only glimpsed from above. As the night wore on, they realized that their time in human form was drawing to a close, and a sense of bittersweet gratitude filled their hearts.With the first light of dawn breaking on the horizon, Deja and Zaire embraced, knowing that this night would remain a cherished memory. They felt their forms begin to shift, the magic of the moon calling them back. As they ascended into the sky, their human forms dissolved into beams of light once more, their laughter lingering in the air like a gentle breeze.From that night on, the field of blue crystals held a special enchantment. Those who wandered there could sometimes hear the faint laughter of Deja and Zaire, and the copper tree at the grove’s center glowed a little brighter, a testament to the magical night when two moonbeams became human and danced among the stars.

Moonbeams, 2024Oil, Dyed Silver, Blue Chrystalina26 x 67 in (66.04 x 170.18 cm)

The night sky was a canvas of wonder as seven planets aligned in a rare celestial event. A snow owl quietly perched on a branch below, seemed to understand the profound significance of the alignment.

Oil Paint, Copper, Gold, Dyed Silver, on Canvas 96 x 36 in (243.84 x 91.44 cm)

In “Letters to Deja,” Ren Dillard creates a body of work that transcends mere artistic expression, becoming a vessel for personal reconciliation. The exhibition’s title is more than metaphorical; these are visual letters, fragments of a correspondence never sent but always felt. The works vibrate with the emotional resonance of unspoken words, longing, and the ache of estrangement. Dillard channels the intimacy of this father-daughter relationship into a formal language of gilding, oil, and collage, materials that evoke both permanence and fragility, just as relationships do. 

Here, art becomes a meditation on distance, not only physical but metaphysical. Dillard’s landscapes, at first glance serene, teem with philosophical undercurrents, as if nature itself holds the key to unlocking deeper truths. His invocation of black girlhood—its strength, its inherent beauty, its resilience—emerges not as a didactic message but as a celebration, honoring his daughter Deja and, by extension, the spirit of black women navigating the world with grace and courage. 

What is most striking is the delicate balancing act Dillard achieves between the personal and the universal. While these pieces are a testament to his own story, they also resonate with a broader cultural narrative. His exploration of empowerment, spirituality, and bravery speaks not only to his daughter but to a collective consciousness, particularly within the black community. The metaphysical and the spiritual are not merely subjects of his art; they are the threads binding father to daughter, artist to audience. 

“Letters to Deja” is, at its core, an act of bravery in itself—an offering of love, layered and rich with meaning. It suggests that even in silence, even across emotional divides, connection is possible through the alchemy of art. And in that alchemy, Dillard offers us a glimpse not only of his soul but also of the universal longing for understanding and reconciliation. It is this deeply human impulse, rendered with sensitivity and grace, that leaves the most lasting impression. 

Recently, a group of 35 boys from the private school Berean Christian Junior Academy in Atlanta had an enriching experience visiting the “Hold the Line” exhibition at the ArtsXchange. Their art teacher, Courtney Brooks, believed it was essential for them to explore the themes of black masculinity presented in the exhibition.

The exhibition, which delves into the complexities and nuances of black masculinity, provided a powerful and thought-provoking experience for the students. The boys were engaged and inspired by the diverse artworks, which ranged from striking paintings,  intricate collage, and exquisite sculpture, all created by talented black male artists from Atlanta.

Courtney Brooks emphasized the importance of understanding and appreciating the themes of resilience, identity, and strength depicted in the artworks. She hoped that this exposure would encourage her students to reflect on their own identities and the broader societal narratives surrounding black masculinity.

The visit was not only educational but also incredibly enjoyable. The boys interacted with the exhibits, participated in discussions with co-curator rEN Dillard, and even had the chance to meet some of the artists. Their excitement and curiosity were evident as they explored the gallery, making the most of this unique learning opportunity.

Overall, the trip to the “Hold the Line” exhibition was a resounding success. It left a lasting impression on the students, reinforcing the value of art in understanding and expressing complex social themes. The boys left the ArtsXchange with a deeper appreciation for the power of art to convey important messages and a renewed sense of inspiration.