Crystal Miller: Queens & Shiny Things
Category: Event Calendar
Date and Time
- Wed, Aug 28, 2024 - Sat, Oct 5, 2024 11am - 4pm
Location
Akron Soul Train
191 S Main St
Details
Akron Soul Train Artist-in-Residence Crystal Miller presents “Queens and Shiny Things,” a collection of fantastical paintings and sculptures that embody Afro-futurism. Marrying African traditions with elements of fantasy, Miller’s art is a personal interpretation of Afro-futurism. This includes a celebration of Afrocentricity through a range of objects—decorative mirrors, combs, jewelry boxes, and press-on nails—that reflect her vibrant childhood. By incorporating kitschy materials, organic patterns, and exaggerated depictions of Black skin, Crystal Miller transforms everyday objects into future artifacts that celebrate a profound sense of Black pride.
“By creating these pieces, I am reclaiming a narrative that society has long suppressed. Through revisiting my past and envisioning the future from a deeply personal perspective, I construct an alternate reality—an escape from the harsh realities of today and a glimpse into a potential utopia where Blackness is freely expressed and celebrated. This immersive experience is designed for the Black community, instilling hope and confidence in our shared future, a future shaped for us and by us.” – Crystal Miller
![](https://img.ctykit.com/cdn/oh-akron/images/tr:w-900/user1725397734.jpg)