Opening Reception - 'Oak Cliff' by Demarcus McGaughey

“Oak Cliff,” the latest solo exhibition by African-American mixed media artist Demarcus McGaughey, brings to life portraits and figures from the vibrant community of Black middle class families in Oak Cliff, Texas. McGaughey’s tribute to his hometown is an origin story with a captivating exploration of 20 vibrant contemporary artworks on canvas.

Skillfully created with acrylic paint, heavy texture, shades of gray and saturated colors, McGaughey says, “this is where my artistic journey started. This exhibition delves into a dynamic world filled with themes of a renaissance of Black culture, childhood memories, the privilege of life long friendships, and the legacy of a community. He explains that his inspiration for this collection comes from the strong bonds he has maintained since childhood, highlighting the sense of pride that Oak Cliff embodies. Oak Cliff, once known as Hord's Ridge, has a history dating back to the 1800s. Through various challenges such as floods and tornadoes, the community persevered and evolved into a stronghold for prominent African-American citizens in the 1980s and 1990s.

The revitalization of Oak Cliff was fueled by economic mobility, peaceful communities, and a reaffirmation of Black culture, leading to a strong sense of togetherness and identity among residents. The paintings in this exhibition reflect the hopes and sacrifices of the first-generation Oak Cliff parents who moved to the area to provide a better life for their children.

McGaughey's work captures the essence of Black figures through childhood experiences, nostalgia, and the profound impact of departed community members, honoring the foundation they laid for future generations. Using deliberate brushstrokes, McGaughey aims to inspire viewers to reflect on Black figures and encourage individuals to pay tribute to those who have shaped their communities. “Oak Cliff” is a rich celebration of Black identity, as well as a tribute to the resilience and beauty of Black communities and Blackness as a whole.