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"Naps, Nebulas, and Neurons: Mark-Making as a Pathway to Radiance" Exhibition Opening
The 1001 Colors Gallery was filled with energy, curiosity and celebration on July 31 as guests gathered for the opening of Naps, Nebulas, and Neurons: Mark-Making as a Pathway to Radiance, the fourth Gallery Fellow exhibition of the season.
Led by artist-in-residence Daryl Myntia Daniels, the exhibition featured the work of seven emerging artists who explored how everyday objects and personal, cultural and creative tools can become powerful vehicles for self-expression. Using materials such as combs and Afro picks, Fellows transformed simple marks into layered visual languages reflecting memory, identity, rhythm, energy and emotion.
The opening drew a great crowd of supporters, artists, friends and community members eager to experience the work, hear directly from the Fellows and celebrate their achievements. The exhibition’s vibrant artwork and the artists’ thoughtful reflections created an evening of connection, discovery and inspiration. Guests also enjoyed music from Cleocrt, whose performance helped set a welcoming tone for the celebration.
A special thank you goes to Myntia, who joined us just days after giving birth just a few days before! Her dedication, vision and mentorship shaped this entire Fellowship experience and helped students explore new creative approaches with confidence and curiosity.
The evening also celebrated the seven Fellows whose work filled the gallery: Lucas Montovani, Faith Ogenyi, Victoria Siverio, Trey Small, Nathaniel Thomas, Terri Thompson and Kai Wilkes. Their willingness to experiment, embrace uncertainty and share personal stories resulted in an exhibition that is both deeply personal and visually expansive.
We are grateful to Karla Batres Gilvin, Exhibitions and Gallery Fellowship Manager, for leading the program and curating this powerful exhibition; Mo Elgazzar, Career Development Specialist; Lauryn Campbell, Gallery Associate; and the entire 1001 Colors team for making the event and Fellowship possible.
Congratulations to our Fellows on an extraordinary exhibition!
If you haven't made it in to see the show, there's still time! Now through Wednesday September 9, 2026, we welcome you to view during our Gallery Hours; Wednesday-Friday 12pm-5pm, and if a piece speaks to you, consider supporting these emerging artists by making a purchase and bring their work home.
This exhibition was made possible through the support of V2: Sara & Michelle Vance Waddell, and Ron & David Houck-Nebel, the presenting sponsors of the 1001 Colors Gallery Fellowship program.
*All Photos By Mark Duc Nguyen