Ren Dillard is no stranger to Southern Laced. Over the years, his visionary artistry and poignant narratives have captivated our audience. From his groundbreaking exploration of Afrofuturism in Glimmer of Things to Come to his role as co-curator for The Next Hundred Years III, Dillard’s work consistently challenges boundaries while illuminating the resilience and brilliance of the African diaspora. Now, with Letters to Deja, he delivers his most personal and evocative exhibition to date.
The exhibition opened on November 15, 2024, at Mason Fine Art in Atlanta, transcending the traditional gallery experience to offer a deeply intimate meditation on love, estrangement, and reconciliation. Inspired by the complexities of his father-daughter relationship, Dillard uses gilding, oil, and collage to create “visual letters” brimming with unspoken words and enduring hope. Each piece is a testament to the fragility and permanence of human connections.
The central work, Dr. Welsing’s Fever Dream, pulsates with philosophical depth and emotional resonance. Dillard’s ability to weave personal narratives with universal themes shines through, turning deeply private moments into shared reflections. His work celebrates black girlhood’s beauty, resilience, and spirit while honoring the collective strength of black women navigating an often-unforgiving world.
Letters to Deja continues through January 15, 2025, inviting viewers to experience the alchemy of art as a medium for reconciliation. Whether you’ve followed Dillard’s journey with Southern Laced or are encountering his work for the first time, this exhibition is a must-see—an offering of love, layered with meaning and relevance for the broader cultural narrative.
Exhibition Details
• Location: Mason Fine Art, Atlanta, GA
• Dates: November 15, 2024 – January 15, 2025
Ren Dillard’s artistry continues to grow, evolving from earlier works highlighted by Southern Laced into this deeply personal and profound visual exploration. Letters to Deja is more than an exhibition; it’s a conversation between heart and art, bridging the silent spaces between words.
Explore the artistry and connect with Dillard’s work at Mason Fine Art.
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