Claiming the Crown

About This Event

Pulse Visual Art at 3256 Walnut Street in RiNo, presents “Claiming the Crown,” a solo exhibition featuring works by local Jamaican artist SA Bennett. As a biracial artist, she finds profound inspiration in the evolution of African heritage across different times and cultures. This is reflected in her work as it celebrates the African diaspora. The show is inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat's use of the three-tiered crown, representing the denial of the humanhood of black people, and of society taking gifted people for granted. The collection is a reminder that we should all claim our crowns. The public is invited to view the show during regular gallery hours or by appointment, shop online at bit.ly/pulsegallery, and to attend the following special events: Opening Reception: First Friday Feb 6, 6­–9 p.m. Visit with the artist. Enjoy light refreshments and drinks. Artist On-Site: Saturday, Feb 21, 12–4 p.m. Bennett will be in the gallery to talk about the art with visitors. Pulse is also partnering with the Biennial of the Americas Culture Club for several events in conjunction with the show, including a Culture Hop at the gallery and a workshop lead by the artist at the Dry Clean Only event space on York Street. For more information on joining the Culture Club and attending these private events, visit www.biennialcultureclub.com. Bennett’s work reflects a rich tapestry of subjects including her son, loved ones, and reflections of various characters from her communities, both in Denver and Jamaica. Among them, the esteemed Denver artist Bob Ragland, along with portraits that capture the essence of Black Lives Matter movement and other social justice causes, which are deeply connected to her identity and life experiences. 
 Her artistic process is deeply rooted in an appreciation for the vibrant and forgiving nature of acrylic painting. However, in her more recent work, she has explored ink resist, cold wax, and oil painting techniques. This exploration represents a gradual shift towards abstraction, driven by the introduction of diverse techniques that open new avenues for artistic growth. She works on canvas, wood panel, and found objects. 
 Bennett holds a BA and BFA in art and art education and taught art with Denver Public Schools for 20 years. She continues to teach adults at The Art Students League of Denver. Her work was selected for the 1998 Governor's awards, is in the permanent collection at the Kirkland Museum and has been purchased by Kaiser Permanente for several locations. She shows regularly in Colorado and internationally and her work is collected by individuals and businesses. Pulse Visual Art, located at 33rd and Walnut in Denver is RiNo Art District’s newest gallery space. Owner Brian Carano is deeply involved in creating an environment that supports and highlights the work of the artists he represents and is committed to advancing the art and business goals of the district. Open Thursday–Saturday 3 – 6 p.m. with extended hours on First Fridays. Learn more, explore available artwork, and stay updated on events at Instagram @pulsevisualart. Contact Brian at [email protected].