Can’t Stop - OkEq showcases the work of Eric Humphries

(Tulsa) The February Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) ‘First Thursday’ reception and exhibit features “Can’t Stop! – America’s Journey from the Slave House to the White House.” The exhibit is a provocative group of paintings by Oklahoma artist Eric Humphries.

The eight canvas series tracks the nearly 400-year quest for African American freedom, liberation and equal rights - through changes in religious beliefs, cultural identity and artistic creativity. The paintings combine depictions of historical sites and well known civil rights leaders with symbolic totems and religious visions. “Even though the exhibit ends with the election of Barack Obama to the presidency,” says Humphries of his exhibit, “my hope is that people will project into the work their own ideas of what comes next. That is - of where the struggle goes from here and how far it can take us as a nation”.

Eric Humphries was raised in rural Norman, Oklahoma. From an early age, he was interested in drawing and painting and spent much of his free time doing so. With few artistic influences to call upon, Humphries practiced by copying comic books and cartoons. In later years, he found himself drawn to politically motivated artists, such as Diego Rivera and Keith Haring. Eventually, Humphries decided to take his art in a socially conscious direction. His works reflect his individuality forged by years of experimentation and his emphasis on simplifying key elements. His paintings are allegorical, depicting true-life historical events as seen through the eyes of an artist.

The show begins with a reception on Thursday, February 6 from 6-9pm at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center (621 E. 4th Street in Downtown Tulsa), and continues throughout the month. There will be a door prize drawn of the artist’s work.

Founded by a dedicated group of volunteers in 1980, Oklahomans for Equality/OkEq is Oklahoma’s oldest gay rights organization. From testing for HIV/AIDS and hosting the annual Tulsa Pride and Diversity Celebration to operating the Equality Center and documenting the Tulsa LGBT community’s rich history, OkEq works for social justice and full inclusion for Oklahoma’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) citizens and their allies. For more information, see http://www.okeq.org/

The Gayly – February 3, 2014 @ 1pm