A Minute With Hasani Sahlehe
Hi! This is a newsletter about artists I like.
I began acquiring art through some friends that worked in galleries. I started small, working on a limited budget, for stuff I could afford. As time passed, my collection grew, and it was exciting to watch many of the artists I'd collected go on to bigger shows and critical acclaim. My goal with this newsletter is to make a digestible resource for anyone interested in artists that are making great (and still affordable!) work, whom you haven't heard about... yet.
I came across Hasani’s work through one of my favorite galleries 106 Green which is currently ran by 3 terrific artists, Holly Coulis, Mitchell Wright & Ridley Howard. They always show great artists and I don’t think there is a better co-sign than artists showing/supporting other artists. Here goes….
Can you describe your painting style?
HS: I would describe my approach to painting as expressive and introspective. It's dance where I alternate between seeking and finding freedom.
You’ve had a busy 2022 showing with : Laney, tops, 12.26…what’s up next for 2023?
HS: 2022 has been exciting. I’m proud of the work the galleries and I have done together. I received the Edge Award from the Forward Arts Foundation earlier this year. So, next is a solo exhibition here Atlanta. It will be my first solo here since 2019. After that, I’ll present a project at Portland’s Adams and Ollman. It will be my first time out West.
I recall you being based in Georgia, are you still in that region? If so, what’s currently Providing inspiration for ya in the south?
HS: Yes, I’m based in Georgia. My family, friends, mentors, peers, and colleagues keep me energized. Additionally, there’s an abundance of space and talent in the South. The Atlanta community is smaller than the big cities. However, it is extremely supportive.
Do you have any recommendations for our readers That may not be in a big city, and have access to museums, galleries?
HS: Instagram is a good way to get a glimpse of what’s happening internationally. I’ve been introduced to many great artists, artworks, and organizations through the platform. I use youtube for listening to lectures and conversations. Actually, I wish the art world would upload more content to youtube. You can never go wrong with catalogs. They can be expensive. So I recommend finding them secondhand and finding out whether your local library carries any.
Who should we have on next ?
HS: Kemar Keanu Wynter - Artist
Antonio Darden - Artist
Y Malik Jalal - Artist
Kevin Ford - Artist
Matt Ducklo - Tops Gallery, Memphis, TN
See you in 2023! For those that reached out on a book, they have been shipped and should be to you soon.
If anyone has any thoughts, recs on how this newsletter can be better, please get in touch. We welcome any and all ideas, potential guests, and always open to partner up.
Thanks to all of you for reading and hangin in with us.
Love his work so much