Founder, Strange Fruit Arts Center
The Story: Originally from Peoria, Illinois, I am a lifelong creative, metalsmith artist, and founder of Strange Fruit Arts Center, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting Black artists and bringing the community together through art. I attended Rasmussen College after high school and returned years later to obtain my bachelor’s in business administration. Professionally, I have built a successful career in corporate leadership, but art has always been my passion and my outlet.
In 2021, I launched Strange Fruit Arts Center after recognizing how many talented artists of color needed greater visibility, support, and opportunities to connect with collectors and one another. What began with one artist member has grown into a vibrant community of more than 30 artists working across a wide range of mediums.
What do you love most about your job? The most rewarding part of my work at Strange Fruit is creating opportunities for artists to be seen, valued, and celebrated. There is nothing more fulfilling than watching an artist make meaningful connections, sell their work, and gain confidence in their creative journey. I also love seeing how art brings people together across generations and backgrounds. Art has the power to inspire conversation, healing, and community.
Leisure time. It is important to me that we build a strong foundation before we build a permanent home. In my free time, I work on administrative tasks for Strange Fruit, plan senior painting parties, focus on growing our membership, and plan our annual event with our dedicated board members. I also create jewelry through my metalsmithing business, Black Girl On Fire, where I hand-fabricate one-of-a-kind pieces in silver and mixed metals. I also enjoy art festivals; traveling; and spending time with my dog, Zorah; my family; and my friends. Much of my leisure time naturally circles back to creativity and supporting fellow artists.
What’s your best advice? Start where you are and trust your vision, even if you cannot yet see the full path ahead. Strange Fruit Arts Center began with one artist and one idea. Do not compare your journey to others. Small beginnings, combined with passion, purpose, and perseverance, can lead to extraordinary impact.
What’s next? This year, Strange Fruit Arts Center is celebrating its fifth-year anniversary with our annual Artist Meet & Greet, Rooted & Rising: A Five-Year Celebration of Art & Community, on July 25, 2026, at the Emma Darnell Aviation Museum & Conference Center. It’s an opportunity for the community to get to know the artists, shop, collect, and celebrate with us. Looking ahead, my long-term vision is to establish a permanent arts center where artists can exhibit their work, teach classes, and connect with the community year-round. We are just getting started; we are rooted and rising.
