Celebrating the artistic journey of Watson Mere: A visionary in visual and performance art

In commemoration of Black History Month, and in honor of Watson Mere and his artwork the Barclays Black Professional Resource Group (BPRG), and the NETS Black Alliance Network (BSE) had partnered with Mere in an exhibition that showcased his tremendous creativity and talent.

The exhibition that took place on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., where Mere paid tribute to Marcus Mosiah Garvey and the Black women’s beauty, essence and uniqueness.

The painting is entitled “Ether.” She signifies Black beauty, the different forms of beauty with her capped teeth and black hair. The artist is implying in this painting that Black is beautiful. Photo by Orlande Fleury

Mere is an award-winning visual and performance artist who has been exhibiting his work for the past seven years. His paintings have been placed in reputable and renowned galleries, museums, and venues across the globe, as well as the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, the Venice Art Gallery in Italy, and The Africa Center in Harlem, New York.

A Watson Mere’s admirer, fan and supporter has declared him to be the Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Sam Gilliam of his generation. Mere’s artistic talent has generated numerous accolades and recognition throughout his career. For instance, he was the recipient of the 2022 Elizabeth Foundation For The Arts Studio Program, a 2023 recipient of the Frederieke Sanders Taylor StudioProjects Fund, the 2018 Citation of Honor (Arts) from the District Attorney of Kings County, and the 2018 Jean-Michel Basquiat Award from Creole Image Honors.

Garvey was a revolutionary leader and activist who dedicated his life to empower and uplift his people and had encountered numerous challenges during his quest to enlighten Black people. However, Mere wanted to honor the legacy and his revolutionary contribution to Black history.

This painting illustrates a couple riding the train but when you look closer you will notice that they have details that suggest that they are the Yoruba Orishas Sango and Oshun who have a very deep relationship in Yoruba mythology. The piece is another example of the artist mixing ancient mythology with modern culture. Photo by Orlande Fleury

Mere who is of Caribbean decent, has been creating art since he was a toddler. “I was taught to draw at two years old to communicate because I was diagnosed with a disability that delayed my speaking ability. I could not speak until I was five years old. For instance, if I needed to use the toilet, I would draw a toilet, or if I was hungry, I would draw a piece of spaghetti. Therefore, art was really my first language,” said Mere.

After learning how to speak at the age of five years old, Mere did not stop creating artwork. At a very young age he learned about Jean-Michel Basquiat, and was extremely inspired by the work that Basquiat had created and the legacy that he left behind. Hence, Mere’s unwavering commitment to his craft that has solidified his status as a trailblazer in the artistic community. This cultural exhibition contributed to Mere’s continuity and dedication to push boundaries that inspire audiences.

Mere’s art can be found @ https://watsonmere.com and https://www.instagram.com/artofmere_/?hl=en