A Celebration of Black Artistry: BHAC Artists Featured in OCCCA’s "2%" Exhibit

Highlighting BHAC Artists Doris Draffen & Sharon Rene at the 2% Exhibition

In May 2024, the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art (OCCCA) presented "2%: A Celebration of Black Artistry", a groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to showcasing the work of Black artists. This powerful exhibit featured approximately 15 artists across various mediums, united in a mission to address the stark statistic that Black artists represent only 2% of the global art world.

Among those featured were BHAC artists Doris Draffen and Sharon Rene, whose contributions deeply enriched the collective narrative of the show. The exhibition officially opened on May 4, 2024, and included a live poetry reading by Marcus Omari and a musical performance by Dr. Vicki Calhoun. It remained on view through May 25, 2024.

Black Artistry in Focus: Sharon Rene & Doris Draffen

Both Sharon Rene and Doris Draffen offered work that echoed themes of heritage, resilience, and emotional truth.

• Sharon Rene, a multidisciplinary artist, photographer, and curator, contributed editorial imagery rooted in sacred storytelling. Her work served as a textured reflection on personal and collective memory.

• Doris Draffen presented contemplative pieces that centered on ancestry, emotional healing, and the Black experience. Her work invited viewers into reflective conversations on generational legacy and identity.

  
  

Their presence in the 2% exhibition not only elevated the quality of the exhibit but also reinforced the critical role Black women play in shaping contemporary art narratives.

A Diverse Roster of Black Creatives

The "2%" exhibition offered a broad and compelling representation of Black artists working across disciplines. In addition to Draffen and Rene, the show featured:

• Britt Samuels Jr. – Photographer and co-curator, exploring identity and cultural preservation.

• Eesuu Orundide – Painter and sculptor using diasporic symbolism and bold aesthetics.

• Eric Jones – Creator of emotionally charged, textural artworks.

• Jouvon Kingsby – Multidisciplinary artist combining street and traditional styles.

• Kobina Wright – Visual and literary artist deconstructing cultural paradigms.

• Kaleeka Bond – Artist reflecting personal stories and inner emotional landscapes.

• Larissa Brown – Multimedia artist exploring womanhood and empowerment.

• Maya Futrell – Artist and co-curator highlighting legacy and community.

• Peyton Burnett – Abstract artist pushing the limits of material and form.

• Sola Saar – Artist blending African influences with contemporary themes.

  
  

Why the "2%" Exhibit Matters

This exhibition sparked a broader conversation on equity, access, and visibility in the arts. By offering a dedicated platform for underrepresented voices, OCCCA helped reinforce the significance of inclusive spaces in cultural institutions. The artists of "2%" not only displayed excellence in their craft but also contributed to a necessary shift toward greater representation in galleries and museums worldwide.