A pick for February ArtHop: Celebrate Black History Month with ‘Down With the Clique’
In celebration of Black History Month, Scarab Creative Arts returns with the popular exhibition “Down With the Clique.” It opens Thursday night at ArtHop, the monthly open house of galleries and studios in the downtown and Tower District neighborhoods. I checked in with curator Tyler Alce for an update:
Q: What is the significance of the title?
A: “Down with the Clique” is about being part of something larger than yourself—a community of people working toward a common goal. It plays on the idea of belonging and solidarity within a group. Being “down” speaks to loyalty, support, and the energy that comes with it: encouragement, inspiration, and the drive to elevate one another.
Q: What is your vision as curator?
A: My vision for the show focuses on community collaboration and cultural storytelling. The exhibition features painting, sculpture, photography, music, and performance, all exploring themes of unity, legacy, resilience, and many other narratives prominent within the Black community.
Q: Why do you think it’s important to have exhibitions like this during Black History Month?
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A: Exhibitions like “Down with the Clique” are especially important during Black History Month because they celebrate the creativity, resilience, and cultural impact of Black artists. Black history is not just about remembering the past, it’s about recognizing the ways Black artists continue to shape culture, push boundaries, and build community today. It provides a space for artists to tell their own stories, reclaim narratives, and inspire people across generations.
During Black History Month, when the world is paying closer attention to Black contributions, shows like this serve as a reminder that Black artistry isn’t confined to one month, it’s an ongoing force that deserves recognition and support all year round.
Q: Is there one work from the show that you could describe for me?
A: “I KNOW I CAN, BE WHAT I WANT TO BE” is inspired by my late brother, Julian Christopher South, the first artist I ever knew. He introduced me to the transformative world of art through dance, music, and ceramics—transformative because pursuing art has changed my life in the most beautiful ways I never could have imagined.
Over the past year, I’ve been reflecting on Nas’ song “I Can.” The lyrics remind me of my brother’s dreams and aspirations—ones he is no longer here to achieve. Yet, I can carry on his legacy and do it for both of us.
This sculpture is an affirmation and a celebration of resilience. The B-boy and Ballerina symbolize the pursuit of dreams. It serves as a tribute to my brother’s legacy and a reminder that dreams are always within reach when fueled by faith, passion, and perseverance.
For more ArtHop possibilities, see a list of venues and exhibitions at the Fresno Arts Council website.
