Meet Desmond Beach | Visual Artist living in New York City

We had the good fortune of connecting with Desmond Beach and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Desmond, what inspires you?
I’m deeply inspired by the legacy of my ancestors. Their sacrifices, unwavering determination, and resilience have paved a path that I strive to honor in every aspect of my life. Every day, I am motivated to be the best version of myself as a testament to their enduring spirit. This influence is profoundly reflected in my work as well. My artwork serves as a vivid representation of their journey, a tribute woven with the threads of their resilience and hope. Through my creations, I aim to channel their essence, paying homage to the indomitable spirit that has shaped my existence.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Absolutely, I’d love to share more about my art and journey. My work is deeply inspired by the profound words of James Baldwin, who once said, “To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a rage almost all the time.” This sentiment fuels my creative endeavors with a profound urgency.

My art is firmly rooted in the tradition of African storytelling, a cultural continuum that informs every piece I create. Each work is a tribute to my ancestors and the broader African Diaspora, expressed through performance and installation art. I strive to transform some of the most painful aspects of the Black experience into poignant beauty, aiming to inspire, elevate, and promote healing.

The themes I explore in my work are drawn from both historical and contemporary experiences of African-Americans, grappling with the pervasive specter of anti-Blackness. This journey involves dissecting and reinterpreting these themes to provoke thought and reflection. My influences range from the Middle Passage and Jim Crow South to modern mass media portrayals, all aiming to confront and dismantle racial stereotypes.

I work across various mediums, including performance, sculpture, multimedia, fiber art, costume, illustration, painting, and photography. Each medium allows me to express different facets of my vision, shedding light on marginalized voices and amplifying stories that are often overlooked.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been far from easy. I’ve faced numerous challenges, including systemic racism and finding platforms to support and showcase my work. However, these obstacles have only strengthened my resolve. With relentless dedication, a supportive network of mentors and friends, and an unwavering commitment to my vision, I have persevered.

Throughout this journey, I’ve learned the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the necessity of staying true to my voice. I want the world to know that my art is not just a personal endeavor but a collective narrative. It speaks to the shared experiences of the African Diaspora, aiming to bridge gaps and foster understanding through the universal language of art.

In essence, my story is one of transformation and empowerment, using art as a tool to heal, educate, and inspire. Through my work, I aim to create spaces for dialogue, reflection, and ultimately, change.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting New York City for a week, I’d craft an itinerary that highlights the city’s vibrant art scene, rich cultural diversity, and dynamic energy. Our journey would start in Harlem, delving into its historic neighborhoods and visiting the Studio Museum in Harlem, which celebrates contemporary Black artists. We’d spend the evening at Minton’s Playhouse, enjoying the soulful rhythms of jazz.

The next day, we’d head to Brooklyn to savor Southern comfort food at Peaches in Bedford-Stuyvesant. In the afternoon, we’d explore the Weeksville Heritage Center, a historic site preserving one of the first free Black communities in America. Dinner at Lighthouse in Williamsburg, known for its seasonal and sustainable dishes, would cap off our day.

Midweek, our adventure would take us to the Bronx Museum of the Arts to see contemporary works reflecting the borough’s culture. Lunch would be at Beatstro, a hip-hop-themed restaurant in the Bronx, followed by a walk through the New York Botanical Garden. In the evening, we’d return to Harlem for a night at Ginny’s Supper Club, enjoying live music and delectable cuisine.

Manhattan would be our next destination. We’d start with a leisurely stroll through Central Park, followed by a visit to Chelsea Market for lunch. The afternoon would be spent exploring the High Line, an urban park built on a historic freight rail line. We’d then enjoy a Broadway show or an off-Broadway performance to round out the day.

We’d dedicate the following day to a visit to Staten Island. Taking the Staten Island Ferry would provide stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. After lunch at a local restaurant, we’d explore the Staten Island Museum or the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. Back in Manhattan, we’d have dinner at J.G. Melon, known for its fantastic burgers.

Our culinary and cultural exploration would continue in Queens. We’d visit MoMA PS1 in Long Island City for contemporary art, followed by lunch in Flushing or Jackson Heights at a spot like Xi’an Famous Foods. The afternoon would be spent at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, and dinner would be at Adda, an Indian restaurant known for its authentic flavors.

For our final day, we’d start with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying its architectural beauty and views. Brunch at Bubby’s in Tribeca would be a delicious treat. The afternoon would be left open for spontaneous adventures, perhaps visiting a gallery in the Lower East Side or enjoying a coffee in Greenwich Village. We’d conclude our week with a sunset visit to Top of the Rock, offering panoramic views of the city.

This itinerary blends structured activities with the flexibility to capture the spontaneous spirit of New York City, ensuring a memorable visit filled with art, culture, and delicious food.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, my parents deserve immense recognition. They nurtured my creativity in every conceivable way, turning our home into a dynamic gallery. From letting me experiment with techniques like gold leafing the dining room ceiling to painting a fresco on a wall, their support was boundless. Their unwavering encouragement provided the foundation for my artistic exploration.

I also owe a huge thank you to my friends. They enthusiastically embraced every wild idea I conceived, whether it was performing in a piece or modeling for a project. Their willingness to join my artistic adventures was invaluable.

Lastly, I am deeply grateful to two pivotal mentors in my educational journey: my high school art teacher, Nicole Fall, and my graduate school mentor, Maren Hassinger. Their guidance, support, and dedication to nurturing my academic and creative growth have been instrumental in shaping my path.

To all of you, I extend my sincerest thanks for the love, support, and inspiration that have propelled me forward.

Website: https://desmondbeach.com

Instagram: @desmondbeach