Smoothie

Smoothie – A Solo Art Exhibition by Erica Dunlap Smoothie is more than an art show—it’s a full-bodied, richly layered experience that blends together the essence of Erica Dunlap’s creative voice. Known for her vibrant, textured mixed media paintings, striking photography, poetic storytelling, and emerging fashion line, Dunlap has created a world where all of these elements exist in harmony. Smoothie is the debut solo exhibition of this Memphis-based artist, offering an immersive and emotional journey into themes of identity, legacy, beauty, Blackness, and becoming. The title Smoothie comes from the way Erica’s creativity flows. Each discipline she explores—art, photography, film, fashion, poetry—feels like a key ingredient in the blend that is her artistic identity. Her work is rooted in color and texture, often incorporating denim, fabric, acrylic, and modeling paste to create layered, dimensional pieces that demand to be felt as much as seen. Every dot in her paintings honors the known and unknown ancestors whose strength she carries. Every piece tells a story. Central to the exhibition is the Dear Black Girl installation—a short film and visual experience where Black women read letters to their younger selves. These deeply personal reflections are full of vulnerability, wisdom, and emotional clarity. They offer viewers a mirror and a balm, affirming the power of healing and self-acceptance. Visitors are also invited to write their own “Dear Black Girl” or “Dear Black Boy” letters as part of the show’s interactive component, turning the exhibit into a living, breathing archive of Black voices and dreams. The visual artwork featured in Smoothie is bold and unapologetic. Each painting is a statement, a celebration, a meditation. Influenced by the energy of classic album covers, the works command attention and elevate everyday emotion into fine art. Erica paints with the intention that her work be seen in homes—not just galleries—especially in the homes of Black collectors who often don’t see themselves reflected in traditional fine art spaces. Her art is not about pain, but about possibility. The show also debuts select pieces from Dunlap’s fashion brand, Wanchy Wear, which brings her art into wearable form. Featuring embellished trucker hats, statement apparel, and conceptual styling, the brand embodies the acronym W.A.N.C.H.—Wise, Ambitious, No-Nonsense, Charismatic, Honest. It’s fashion with intention and attitude, designed for those who move boldly in the world. Smoothie opens with a special event that includes a live spoken word performance, the premiere screening of Dear Black Girl, and access to the full gallery of paintings and wearable art. Guests will enjoy handcrafted smoothies and curated charcuterie cups as they view the work, making this event a true sensory experience. Subsequent gallery days allow visitors multiple opportunities to engage with the work at their own pace. Admission is pay-what-you-can because Erica believes art should be accessible—especially to communities historically excluded from fine art spaces. Artwork is available for purchase using a “Best and Final Offer” model, with starting ranges listed. Collectors are encouraged to make their first offer their strongest, as there will be no second chance offers—an intentional choice to reflect value, trust, and respect for both artist and buyer. This show is for the dreamers, the survivors, the storytellers, and the bold. For Black girls who are growing, healing, or simply existing in their own power. For anyone who’s ever needed a reminder that they are art, too. Come sip something soulful. Come feel the texture of legacy. Come experience the blend. Show Dates: • Opening Night + Film Screening – August 2 at 6:00 PM • The Aftertaste – August 3 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM • The Second Pour – August 5 from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (gallery hours) • Still Blending – August 7 from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (gallery hours) • The Last Sip – August 9 from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (gallery hours) Admission: Pay-What-You-Can Art Sales: Best & Final Offer Only Location: Artifacts Art Gallery 980 E Brooks Rd Curated, crafted, and poured from the heart of Memphis, Smoothie is Erica Dunlap’s love letter to Black creativity and liberation.

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Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3166736-0

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