Janathel Shaw’s April solo show, SOLIDAREity! is a reflection upon the status of Blacks in America: a series of figurative pieces and portraits of men, women and children looking boldly into the present and the future.  Inspiration for this new series derives from the lost souls, activists and community of people who are part and parcel of the American landscape—people who enrich that landscape in both hidden and overt ways.  The portraits incorporate texture, rich deep lines and are anchored in contrast.  Several are rooted in a defiant solidarity of consciousness, soulfulness, and personal voice.  Some are dark in tone in recognition of ongoing struggles.