XPayne
Curated in partnership with Clarence Edwards
April 14 - August 25, 2023
XPayne synthesizes African cultures, Western culture, and Afrofuturism, putting together a group of works that stand as a representation of the story of Black America; from inception, to modern times, and finally to an unknown future. This collection is separated into three parts: Past, Present, and Future, and like scenes in a play, each painting is meant to build on the concepts of the last.
“As I focus on the Black experience, I find inspiration in mixing fantasy storytelling with an African spiritual system that is known to some and obscure to others in American culture. My intention with these works is to construct a story inspired by Yoruba that can expand the viewer’s idea of what is possible. This collection and Afrofuturism itself is ultimately about accepting and adapting to change.”
To make an appointment outside the reception or existing showtimes, contact Manager of Artistic Programming Daniel Jones at daniel@ozartsnashville.org.
ABOUT XPAYNE
Xavier Payne is an artist and designer who earned his BFA in Design in 2014. During the day, Xavier worked as a graphic artist for various companies. By night, he worked as a painter and illustrator, cultivating an audience and gaining the attention of high-profile clients. Since 2017, XPayne has worked as a full-time artist highlighting social and existential topics.
In 2022, XPayne was named “Best Artist of the Year” by the Nashville Scene following the success of his latest exhibition of works: Past, Present, and Afrofuturism, that debuted in August of the same year. He has been part of group shows and live engagements nationwide since 2014, and has completed projects for The Source Magazine, Spike Lee’s 40 Acres and a Mule Studio, and Complex.com.
“I think that art should go to people; it should tell a story. It should interrupt a person’s day and change their mood.”