“Lavender Balm: Expressions of Queer Resistance” Exhibition Opening

Join us for the opening of exhibition Lavender Balm: Expressions of Queer Resistance on Friday, May 31 from 5–7 p.m. in ArtWorks’ V2 Gallery, located at 929 E McMillan St., Cincinnati, OH, 45206.

Led by Artist-in-Residence Barry Lee from Atlanta, Georgia, Lavender Balm features vibrant artworks that delve into the realm of vulnerability, exploring profound internal themes rooted in the artists’ lived experiences. During this three week workshop, a group of Gallery Fellows (ages 16-24) have learned skills and techniques under Barry’s guidance. Through this exhibition, Fellows will share their newly-created pieces with the community for the first time.

This event is free and open to the public. Works displayed are for sale, with proceeds going directly to the artists.

Gallery Fellows:

Robin Lively

Monte Jones

Hannah Feibelman

MK Hensley

Jason Parker

Kaya Friday

Pierce Gravenstine

Bryn Studer

Gavin Warner

Accessibility Notice: At the request of the artists, masks are mandatory at this opening and will be provided to attendees. The gallery’s middle entrance has stairs, while the far right and left entrances provide ADA accessibility with ramp access and sidewalk entry. The environment is free of loud sounds or moving lights, and seating is available. Additionally, a sensory kit is available upon request at the front desk. The gallery is equipped with a first aid kit. Please note that there are no restrooms on site.

Parking: A free community parking lot is located on the corner of Copelen St. and E McMillan across from Fireside Pizza. Addition parking:
· Paid Parking lot located behind PNC Bank (Directly across from Free community parking lot).
· There are various side streets with parking near the ArtWorks Office and V2 Gallery. Melrose Ave, right behind PNC. Chatham Street and Stanton Ave on either side of Green Man Park.

· Limited street parking along Gilbert Ave and E. McMillan, including right in front of our building (2460 Gilbert Ave).

Sensory Kit: Designed for individuals with various neurodivergences, this kit includes:
· Earplugs and folding noise-canceling headphones (for adults and children) to mitigate overwhelming noise.
· Sticky notes for covering sensors.
· A small bottle of hand lotion for soothing.
· Sensory toys: a fidget cube and Wikki Stix.
· Alcohol-free hand sanitizing wipes.
· Communication cards: visual aids for nonverbal communication and speech delay.
· Small pocket notebook and pen.
· Large print word puzzle.
· Sensory mats and a weighted lap pad.
· Polarized sunglasses.

Gallery Inquiries: For inquiries about the ArtWorks V² Gallery or to schedule a visit outside of regular openings, contact Karla Batres Gilvin, Exhibitions and Gallery Fellowship Manager, at Karla@ArtWorksCincinnati.org.