Derek Gores

"Not Waiting in the Wings" collage of a butterfly in black, white, red, blue

"As an African-American artist in today’s world, I embody the vast differences found in our collective backgrounds. I view them as cultural assets. We are always self discovering and these self discoveries take us in surprising directions. We must gain strength from what we learn from each other as well as listen to that persistent, ever present, intuitive self. The connection of one’s own rich heritage and person growth will travel into the inevitable and critical connection between African Americans and Africa. These connections are rich and very important. They Exist! My work, I hope, will serve as a creative connection between the African diaspora and western culture. It is this connection that cause my creative forces to react." Janice Frame...

"As an African-American artist in today’s world, I embody the vast differences found in our collective backgrounds. I view them as cultural assets. We are always self discovering and these self discoveries take us in surprising directions. We must gain strength from what we learn from each other as well as listen to that persistent, ever present, intuitive self. The connection of one’s own rich heritage and person growth will travel into the inevitable and critical connection between African Americans and Africa. These connections are rich and very important. They Exist! My work, I hope, will serve as a creative connection between the African diaspora and western culture. It is this connection that cause my creative forces to react." Janice Frame...