About the Gallery

“What does it mean to be black?” is one of the main questions centered around the exhibit “Unapologetically Noir.” Featuring over 30 photographs of black men and women from all walks of life, Anderson showcases diverse physical and mental characteristics of the participants.

Inspired by the documentary “The Black Catholic Experience” by community activist Elaine Castellanos, this exhibition combines answers to an array of personal questions along with the medium of photography to create an environment where the subject’s differences are not only highlighted but celebrated. The vision is to expand the gallery with more subjects to further the conversation on the topic of “What does it mean to be black” and broaden the often-narrow views associated with it.

Although there are numerous divides across the country, this exhibit aims to celebrate the African American culture and continue to instill a sense of pride throughout the community. Unapologetically Noir aims to demonstrate how the medium of photography can be an essential cultural tool in spreading information across our everchanging landscape.

Unapologetically Noir Online Gallery

In order to view the participants responses please view the page with a computer or tablet.

Aaron Green (Copy)

Occupation: Branding & Design Consultant

City of Birth: Merrillville

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 36

What does it mean to be Black?

Well to me being Black means to be a person with Melanated skin. A person whose culture was striped in the African diaspora, while living under oppression in a society that was built with free labor and terrorism. To be Black means to be resilient. To be loving, forgiving and powerful.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I lost my retail job at hardware store in the 2008 recession. It was hard finding a job at that point. A good brother named Arrington Fultz took me under his wing and taught me how to invest in real-estate and how to become an awesome photographer. He gave me my first semi-pro camera the canon 20D and taught me the art of shooting portraits. A skill that continues to pay off today.

What makes a person strong?

Being able to love others and treat them with decency despite our differences. Being able to put aside personal prejudices or biases to find the humanity in a person.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Love God, Love yourself, Love others. Live un-apologetically, and do everything through love. Open doors for the next generation and respect the wisdom of the elders.

Amare (Copy)

Occupation: YouTuber

City of Birth: Fort Wayne

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 12

What does it mean to be Black?

To be of darker skin tone.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

When I was a kid going to my grandparents’ house, I always got new hot wheels.

What makes a person strong?

Feeling loved, encouraged and supported.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Don't stop believing and keep trying to do the things you want to succeed in.

Andre Turner (Copy)

Occupation: Shipper / US STEEL GARY WORKS

City of Birth: East Chicago

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 49

What does it mean to be Black?

A complex combination of being both empowered and endangered

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I was in a car accident one winter in my 20s. I didn’t have on enough clothes for the weather, so l was freezing when an older couple pulled over and offered to let me warm up in their car. Many others passed by, but they stopped.

What makes a person strong?

Faith

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Understand that life is like a race with many obstacles. You can use each one of these to fortify you in preparation for the next one, or you can give up . Each obstacle gives you a strength you might not have acquired had you not persevered. Keep running the race.

Angee B. (Copy)

Occupation: Government Employee

City of Birth: Gary, IN

City of Residence: Brownsburg

Age (optional): 41

What does it mean to be Black?

Considering I've never been anything else, I take that as what it means to be myself. I would define me as simply complicated, heard yet misunderstood at times, intimidating to those who don't know the path I've walked to get where I am, outspoken and bold, sympathetic and unapologetic. Being black is not a "thing" you don't get to pick as if you have a choice, you are chosen, selected by God and for that I am proud and honored.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

The smallest act that instantly comes to mind was when I was out of state in completely unfamiliar territory and I had just witnessed the death of my husband. After everything I feel to my knees in the middle of the street laying in the blood my husband left behind, just lying there numb. Suddenly I was surrounded by shadows. Those shadows were the Latina women from that neighborhood with rosary beads completely surrounding me and speaking in their native tongue, but yet I knew exactly what they were saying, I knew what they were praying for and it was me. That day alone is unforgettable, but those women and their actions will never be forgotten.

What makes a person strong?

I feel a person is strong according to their responses and reactions to different types of life situations thrown their way. The way we respond to something often times will determine what happens next whether negative or positive. Your reaction to the outcome of your response to whatever that particular situation is a display of your strength. Your ability to adapt and adjust to anything is a characteristic of a strong person.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Try it and see what happens. It will either work out or you'll have to adjust and make some changes and try again. But trying is the most important part.

Brandon Dorsey (Copy)

Occupation: Artist

City of Birth: Laurel, MD

City of Residence: Chicago

Age (optional): 30

What does it mean to be Black?

To me, it means to continually fight the stereotype and oppression followed with our culture and race, thus, educating individuals through conversation and intellect.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

Before my downstairs neighbors moved out, they surprised me with dropping off a bunch of canvas, windowpanes, and spray paint outside of my door for me to walk out and see.

What makes a person strong?

Emotional and mental awareness and stability

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

The only expectations that matter, or should matter, are not the ones created by others for you, but the ones you make for yourself.

Brittny L. Jones (Copy)

Occupation: Associate, Marketing

City of Birth: Evanston, IL

City of Residence: Portage, IN

Age (optional): 32

What does it mean to be Black?

To be a member of a community of excellence, past and present. From pharaohs to artists to actors to scientists and everything in-between.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

Once in high school, I was at the airport, tired, frustrated and fighting with the tampon dispenser that ate my quarter, a very nice lady gave me a tampon and said, "Us ladies have to stick together." I was ridiculously grateful in that moment--more than she knew.

What makes a person strong?

The ability to admit failure and learn from it, combined the with ability to ask for aid. Both denote wisdom, which is at the core of strength.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

To trust that despite setbacks and sorrow, there exists a being who will never leave you--God. He's always a friend, a comforter, an advocate, and He will NEVER leave you to fight and live by yourself.

Clarice Parker (Copy)

Occupation: Entrepreneur

City of Birth: Gary, IN

City of Residence: Gary, IN

Age (optional): 41

What does it mean to be Black?

It means everything to be black, I love the skin I’m in. Black comes in all different shades. Black is beautiful, black is love, black is caring and just a color. Black is me!

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

This opportunity that is giving to me right now from Tyrell is the most kindness thing anyone has done. I’m always helping others and reaching out but never really ask or get anything in return. God blessing me with all kindness that I do for other people.

What makes a person strong?

Growing up in low poverty, wanting to make things better for yourself, family and others. To never give up no matter the situation. For me, people and their negativity is what I thrive off of. Makes m e more determined.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

To never give up, never be afraid to ask a question or for help. Always be knowledgeable about what’s going on. Put yourself out there and don’t be afraid of what anyone has to say. Greatness doesn’t fall in your lap you have to work hard for it.

Corky Gray (Copy)

Occupation: Artist/Painter

City of Birth: Gary, In.

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 42

What does it mean to be Black?

Kings and Queens.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I was at the art store one day and a lady asked what do I do... I said artist...she bought my canvas for me.

What makes a person strong?

God

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Keep God first in all you do.

Domonique L. Wilson (Copy)

Occupation: Regional JAG Coordinator/Wellness Coach

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): Dope

What does it mean to be Black?

To be black means to be in possession of melanin which normally results in soul, strength, deeply rooted instinct and wisdom.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

All of them. Over the years I've learned that kindness should be cherished. And to be sure to add them to your list of gratitude.

What makes a person strong?

A person shows their greatest strength in the face of adversity. Strength comes when a person has faith in God, when what they see, meaning what they understand, doesn't match God's promises.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Life's joy is in knowing yourself in your purest form and loving...all that!

Gretchen Sipp (Copy)

Occupation: Graphic Designer and Digital Marketing Specialist

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 40

What does it mean to be Black?

Being Black is a gift. It is coming into this world having already been kissed by the sun, infused with a strong dose of strength, resilience, insight, and culture. It is an inner essence of civilizations past that influenced generations and an innate ability to connect with our roots to heal ourselves. Being Black is culture. Being Black is breath. Being Black is strength. Being Black is love. Being Black is my superpower.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

Its hard to pick one but I will say my clients and friends planned a surprise birthday party for me and gave me enough money for me to travel to Little Rock Arkansas to meet my mentor and attend a conference that really served as the catalyst to think bigger about business, entrepreneurship and black wealth.

What makes a person strong?

Strength is not superficial, it is the ability to be vulnerable feel deep into the pain acknowledge it and resolve to persevere and transform the situation and really yourself.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Love through the lessons in life. Life has a whole bunch of lessons that we are all students learning through. Give yourself grace, be vulnerable and accept your humanity and love yourself through the lessons. It makes it easier to adapt and navigate life and makes it so much sweeter.

Ivan D. Ursery II (Copy)

Occupation: Graphic Designer

City of Birth: Merrillville

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 36

What does it mean to be Black?

Descendant of Africans.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

Given community service when I deserved jail time.

What makes a person strong?

Being willing to stand on your principles and maintain your dignity in the face of adversity.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Repent and follow Jesus.

James Anderson (Copy)

Occupation: Retired

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Bloomington

Age (optional): 67

What does it mean to be Black?

I don’t think of myself as black. I am me. I see people as how I am treated. I am a person, so are they. I only see color when there is someone negative to my color.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

Junior high school teacher who encouraged me to play ball.

What makes a person strong?

To do the right things though other people think it's strange.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Get a good education, do the job the best you can, and try to save and pay bills on time.

Jordan Wilson (Copy)

Occupation: Entrepreneur

City of Birth: Gary, Indiana

City of Residence: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Age (optional): 26

What does it mean to be Black?

To be Black means to be powerful. It means to have inherited a legacy of tribal innovation, determination, and progress. To be Black means to have influence on the way society behaves acts and thinks.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

Most of us are far from our responsible selves in college. In undergrad a good friend of mine committed (without me asking at all) to share hers with me until I got mine!

What makes a person strong?

The ability to live past the opinions of others and prioritize self-image and personal desires above the expectations of anyone else.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

I urge whoever is reading this to recognize that their life has incredible meaning. It is important that they recognize that walking in their own purpose is to pursue their own dreams, and no one else’s. They must focus on their passion and understand that making an impact often means examining how self-passion can help others. I would also encourage them to understand that self-love and treating others with kindness is the greatest gift that they can offer this world.

Jon Phelps (Copy)

Occupation: Constructor

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 35

What does it mean to be Black?

Being Black means being a torchbearer of resilience and excellence.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I transferred to Williams in 3rd grade. Darneil Fuller walked up to me one day and said: Hey man, I heard you got a twin brother. I got twin brothers too, so I understand twins. The small act of kindness is found in him taking his own experience + sharing it with me to make a connection between strangers in an organic way. I didn't know it then, but that moment singlehandedly shaped the way I view my approach to finding common ground with others to this day.

What makes a person strong?

Carrying out actions from a place of love is what makes a person and a people strong.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Smile more. Be kind to yourself and others. Accord people dignity. The world is bigger than you know but that shouldn't stop you from seeing as much of it as possible. Start at excellence and go up from there. Your brain welcomes a challenge from you. Always remember who you are and who you represent. In order to remember, you must know first. Drink more water. Life is long because nobody knows what death is really like so concern yourself with living + don't worry about dying. Be an agent of change for the good. Enjoy trying love on. If it doesn't fit, take it off. Take some time, find love that's real and feels good then wear that shit out.

Kevin Lige Bey (Copy)

Occupation: Holistic Bodyworker/ Demon slayer/ spirit charmer

City of Birth: Marianna, Arkansas

City of Residence: Gary, Indiana

What does it mean to be Black?

To be subject to any / every affliction prescribed under the umbrella of that assignment (being Black) I'm a Moorish American ( through study ,conditioning and birth rite) " being Black" is devoid of nationality.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

Someone recognized a gift in Me and gave Me an opportunity to build and strengthen My craft without conditions or strings tied to its application.

What makes a person strong?

To be able to take both the positive or adverse collection of experiences in our lives and chisel a strong character out of nothing.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Stand firm and always play to win.

Krystyle D. Carlos (Copy)

Occupation: Teacher/artist

City of Birth: Chicago

City of Residence: Hammond

Age (optional): 36

What does it mean to be Black?

It means to be innovative, unique, and admired.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I remember a time where a stranger gave me a couple of dollars to catch a train when I didn't have enough money to get home.

What makes a person strong?

His/her ability to endure and keep pushing.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

"Do what you want to do! You are the one who either benefit or suffer."

LaTaishia Richardson (Copy)

Occupation: State Eligibility Consultant

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Indianapolis

Age (optional): 34

What does it mean to be Black?

Being Black for me means that everyday I'm pushing harder to rise above what everything around expects me to succumb to. Being Black is indescribable strength and relentless determination.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

There was a time where me and my children were having financial difficulties and I was unable to provide consistent meals. I put my pride aside and took them to a soup kitchen, which we arrived late to because of car trouble. A lady cleaning up seen us walking away from the door and let us in with no questions asked and no open judgment. My kids were able to eat even though she could of watched us walk away.

What makes a person strong?

For me, a person shows strength when they decide not to give up.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Never give up! Your past doesn't define your future...

LaTasha Westbrook (Copy)

Occupation: Mobile Drug Screening Services and On-Site Safety (Construction) Manpower

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Valparaiso

What does it mean to be Black?

Being Black means you are Bold, Beautiful, and Brilliant. We are confident, courageous, and strong. We come in a variety of shade colors which are all beautiful. We take risk and are talented and creative.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I landed a job at a medical plant in Gary about a year after high school. I had moved to Hammond and didn’t have transportation to start my shift at 5am and one of the younger ladies in orientation with me volunteers to help me. She lived about 3 blocks from the job but got up earlier every day to drive about 15 minutes to get me. She did so for a few months until I received my driver’s license and was able to drive myself to work. Definitely appreciative.

What makes a person strong?

Knowing that you are good enough, brave enough, and can overcome any obstacles. Also, realizing you have the capabilities to do whatever you set your mind to.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Asking for advice is NOT a sign of weakness!

McKenya Dilworth (Copy)

Occupation: Educator/Facilitator of Learning/ Creative/Advocate

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): Blessed

What does it mean to be Black?

Beyond the feeling of being chosen, I feel what Black the color is and that is the combination of all colors but I feel like I am the combination of all that which is good or the potential of that which is good and productive. To be Black is to be responsive and responsible to make sure wherever we are we become the moral compass for that place and area...we are the flavor, the pulse, the pusher of newness and freshness, no matter the area... It is a badge of honor, and a heavy crown to wear at times but ALWAYS worth it...

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I was given a trip to Japan to show me how I was seen or not seen....in Japan I was not stared at as if I were some kind of new species...before that experience I had only been in Europe to live and study and was often stared at and asked the most bizarre questions...in Japan, I was one of many beautiful beings...

What makes a person strong?

Being able to have faith that the truth will prevail...plainly speaking, strength to me is being okay with not telling your side of the story.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Be brave through staying connected with others.

Marcus Gales (Copy)

Occupation: Lot Attendant

City of Birth: Harvey

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 30

What does it mean to be Black?

To have pride in who you are and accept that you are special.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I was told that I was handsome when I felt ugly.

What makes a person strong?

Standing on their beliefs when everyone/everything around them is telling them different.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Be true to yourself and spread love to others who might need it.

Pamela May (Copy)

Occupation: IT

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 45

What does it mean to be Black?

It's to be strong, to be resilient, to be creative and to know what it is to really endure.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

Growing up, I was always trying to please everybody. I always wanted to be and do what they wanted. Somebody saw that in me and said one thing: " You are enough!"

What makes a person strong?

I honestly think a person is strong when he or she can see the weakness in somebody else and have the capability to lift that person up. I feel that emotions are the strongest barriers we carry in life, good or bad.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Don't be afraid to fail! Use it as a chance to critique, plan, and attack!

Raymar Brunson (Copy)

Occupation: Photographer/Cinematographer

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 23

What does it mean to be Black?

To be Black means having to deal with a lifetime of struggle because of your culture and the color of your skin. But this struggle is what makes you stronger than most and pushes you forward.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

When I was 18 a photographer by the name of Jan Tichy gave me a Vivitar-LU lens that I believe had been passed through many photographers. I'm not sure why Jan gave me the lens but it meant a lot to me and I always keep it in a safe place.

What makes a person strong?

What makes a person strong is the desire to be the person that they can be against all odds.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Feeling loved, encouraged, and supported.

Sallye Matthews (Copy)

Occupation: Steel Worker

City of Birth: Harvey, IL

City of Residence: Valparaiso

Age (optional): 43

What does it mean to be Black?

To be black means resilient. Blackness is necessary, beautiful and unconquerable.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

My car was swiped in a traffic accident and my nerves were rattled until a comforting stranger, who witnessed the event, invited me to wait for the police in her car. She stayed with me until everything was okay.

What makes a person strong?

The ability to accept responsibility for their own life choices, their behavior, actions and proudly, successfully, make the changes needed to be able to hold their head up and carry on.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

There is nothing wrong with you. Keep shining!!

Shatiya (Copy)

Occupation: Entrepreneur

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 30 something

What does it mean to be Black?

To me being black means power, style and grace, attitude (in a good way), being unapologetically free, joy I’m a world or pain and sorrow, diversely melanated. Being black is evolution, leadership, and royalty amongst so many other things.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I have no specific story right now. However, I know God has always sent the right people in my life at the most crucial times of me going through hardships. So, for that I always remember to be a blessing to others as He (God) has sent others to bless me. An on-time God, for certain.

What makes a person strong?

Faith.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Keep going, no matter the obstacles because life goes on. So, trust the process, it always gets greater later. God is in control even when everything is OUT of control. TRUST

Sherita Woodard (Copy)

Occupation: Graphic Designer

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Tampa, FL

Age (optional): 36

What does it mean to be Black?

Being Black means having pride in who you are and knowing that there is power in color of your skin.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I once had a friend pay for me to fly to New Orleans while I was going through an extremely rough time. I really needed that trip at the time, and I will always appreciate that.

What makes a person strong?

The ability to persevere through hard times while not letting the hard times keep you from losing hope and starting over again.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Strive to be fearless.

Tyrell Anderson (Copy)

Occupation: Starving Artist

City of Birth: Munster, IN

City of Residence: Gary, IN

Age (optional): 35

What does it mean to be Black?

I proposed this question because in all honesty, I really don’t know. I see black as a color and when I look at the people who raised me, I see a rainbow of pigments that aren't "black" but are lumped into that bucket. When I look at the country that assigned me this color for representation it just reminds me of our past. A past that many people want to overlook or forget it ever happened. What were my ancestors before they were rebranded black? I will never know. Although I appreciate the positive spin that many have put on the title "black", I feel like I only say I'm black because I've been programmed to do so.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

In early 2020 before covid was "real" I was extremely ill for 1 day (probably covid). I could barely breathe, and I remember being in bed thinking "man… I'm about to die. This is really it… this sucks. Well, I guess I had a good ride." I was just alone and to a point where I couldn't even ask for help because I could barely breathe. Randomly my son enters the room, gets in the bed, and just places his hand on mine. I don't know if he could sense something was wrong, but that moment made me forget about my pain. You never know how your presence alone will positively impact someone.

What makes a person strong?

Being able to push through the roadblocks that life throws at you. Being able to ask for help when those obstacles become too much to handle.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. We know life is short, so take care of your temple.

Walter Anderson (Copy)

Occupation: Retired

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Gary

What does it mean to be Black?

I come from a line of strong men and women that can survive any and everything.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I ran out of gas and a stranger help me by filling up my tank.

What makes a person strong?

Being able to stand on their own and help others in need.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Playing with your credit is like playing a hand of poker one false move and the game is over.

Karen (Copy)

Occupation: Cashier

City of Birth: Gary

City of Residence: Gary

What does it mean to be Black?

My black is beautiful and creativity even through the struggle.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

Someone paid for my grocery without my knowledge.

What makes a person strong?

A strong person is so one who pushes through life even when they don't have the strength.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

Give it your all with no regrets.

Terra L. Cooks aka Poetry 'N' Motion (Copy)

Occupation: Mother, Mentor, Writer/Songwriter, Educator, Radio Personality, Event Creator/Event Host, Spoken Word Artist and Recording Artist

City of Birth: Chicago, IL

City of Residence: Gary

Age (optional): 49

What does it mean to be Black?

Predominantly, I don't see 'color'. I see people. "I am as Black as you are White; and as White as you are Black." (Quote from my poem, Influential Blackness, 2007) --- Being Black means learning who I am culturally and genetically. Embracing the highs and the lows. Excepting the ignorance along with the brilliance. Breaking the cycles and making changes where I can. Being someone that not only MY children can look up to, but others as well. And being that change that I speak about and others only think about.

It means hearing the stories passed from person to person and sifting out the truth. And knowing when to create your OWN truth.

It means knowing that the odds are leaning against you. You can either accept that, or you can push back until the odds lean in your favor.

What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?

I've been blessed to have more than one... But I think this one stands out the most... A few years ago, I had started a Literacy Program that was integrated into the Gary Public Library Kennedy Branch Summer Reading Program. NO ONE knew, accept me and the artist that I brought from Chicago to help me implement the program, that I was person behind it. And I kept it that way, until well after the summer was over. On the last day of the program, the parents and students were all gathered for a nice little ceremony of recognition, awards and prizes. Prior to that day, I had bought book bags and school supplies and sought out donations of more from others in the City. So, on the last day of the program, the kids all received back packs or book bags with supplies in them and they were able to start school with, at least, a minimum of what they needed for class.

I was asked to host event and I did. Well, at the end of the event, I had given acknowledgment, little gifts and a trophy to the Librarians, Mrs. Moore and Mrs. Carr and to my artist friend for their dedication and hard work. Mrs. Moore and Mrs. Carr surprised me with a gift basket for pitching in to help. But there was this young lady, one of the students, maybe 12 or 13 years old, who looked me in the eye with this matter-of-fact, "Yeah, I know your secret" look and said, "You should pat yourself on the back and thank YOU, TOO for all the hard work that you did." I just looked at her and smiled, but I was kind of taken back by her statement. In my mind, I was like, HOW IN THE WORLD COULD SHE KNOW THAT?! I didn't tell anyone what I did!!! It just felt really awesome and appreciated to acknowledged by one of the students, without provocation. It was like she noticed, AND said, what the adults hadn't. But the gift basket from the Librarians was a nice surprise, too.☺️

What makes a person strong?

Hmmmm 🤔. I think admitting to your weaknesses; letting certain people see those weaknesses; finding the strength to reach beyond yourself for someone else's sake when you feel weak or at your lowest; using your weakness to find your strength or finding that strength in the face of fear or adversity; and admitting when you're wrong or saying 'I'm sorry' when you REALLY don't want to or don't believe that you should have to.

If you could give any advice or words of encouragement, what would it be?

As a person in general... Allowing yourself to step into the role of the student, sometimes, can help you be a better teacher. That includes parenting. Speaking as an artist... Study yourself. And do your research. NEVER leave your business... your well-being... your finances, situation or whatever it is... all up to someone else without you knowing what's going on just because they're the expert and you're not. You don't have to know everything inside out, unless you want to. But you should, at least, have some knowledge of what's what and how things work. That way, you can make informed decisions. You can play a part deciding things in your own interests and no one can make a fool of you. The entertainment business is full of people dependent on other people to run things for them. Don't sign anything you don't understand and if you don't know what it is you're signing. ALWAYS get it in writing, that includes family and friends; and I don't care how long it takes you, ALWAYS read contracts to completion. Especially when it comes to the fine print. If you don't understand something, to hell with if you might look or sound stupid... ASK THE DAMN QUESTION until you're satisfied with the answer or until you understand it.

A number of ppl don't follow their dream or complete what they started because they don't

For those who enjoyed the concept and would like to be a part of the online gallery, this is your opportunity. Please fill out the questionnaire below, and efforts to capture your photograph will be communicated in a follow-up email.

Unapologetically Noir Questionnaire

Artist Talk – Mar. 5th

Join Anderson as he breaks down his vision behind the exhibit, how participants were selected, and where he views this project in the future. Audience will have the opportunity to ask questions as well.

This exhibit is hosted by the Miller Beach Arts and Creative District and will display for the next two weeks at the Marshall J. Gardner Center for the Arts.