TABITHA WHITLEY SOLO SHOW
Presented by The Untitled Space
The Untitled Space is thrilled to announce the debut solo exhibition of Brooklyn-based artist Tabitha Whitley, curated by Indira Cesarine. The exhibition opens on October 11, 2024, and will be on view through October 19, 2024. This showcase will feature Whitley’s latest series of oil on canvas paintings alongside intricate works on paper.
In this compelling body of work, Whitley invites viewers to contemplate the transformative power of light—a central theme that resonates deeply in our daily lives. Inspired by the dappled light of spring, which has long captivated artists, her paintings reflect the unique interplay of sunlight filtering through trees, creating luminous patterns that define this season. Each piece begins with an underpainting focused on capturing light, followed by layers of vibrant oil paint that express both color and illumination. The graphite drawings on transparent drafting film further enhance this exploration, layering imagery with the ethereal quality of dappled light.
Having grown up in Brooklyn, Whitley draws from her childhood experiences on tree-lined streets, where the canopies created a comforting embrace. One notable work, “The Stoop,” depicts her childhood home’s stoop, showcasing the shadows of these familiar trees. Through her art, she seeks to envelop viewers in a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, encouraging a reflective engagement with their surroundings. These works explore our intrinsic connection to light and its relationship with the natural world, inviting a reflective engagement with our surroundings.
Whitley states, “Despite growing up in the bustling environment of New York City, I find deep inspiration in nature. The contrast between urban life and the natural world drives my desire to seek and represent green spaces, reflecting a longing for tranquility and connection. My work is an invitation to pause and reflect on the subtle yet profound connections that define our experience with nature and ourselves.”
Artist Bio
Tabitha Whitley is a Brooklyn-based artist recognized for her vibrant oil paintings, luminous drawings, and bold prints. Her work navigates themes of identity, heritage, and the profound interconnectedness of humans and nature. Whitley earned her BFA in Painting from the Fashion Institute of Technology in 2009, followed by an MFA in Painting from the New York Academy of Art in 2011, where she also served as the President of the Alumni Association and on the Board of Trustees. She has exhibited widely, with notable appearances in the “Love Black” exhibition at the Springfield Museum of Art and the 2024 Brooklyn Museum’s “Brooklyn Artist Exhibition.” Her art has received attention from prominent publications, including The Wall Street Journal and The Guardian. Currently residing in her native Brooklyn, New York, Tabitha Whitley continues to pursue her studio practice, creating art that reflects her deep engagement with personal and universal themes.