Through Your Looking Glass also features the work of these mentor artists: Tara Blackwell, Lauren Clayton, 5ive Fingaz, Butch Quick and Jahmane West

Tara Blackwell https://www.bwellstudios.com

Tara Blackwell is a mixed-media pop artist based in Connecticut, known for her vibrant artwork that delves into social justice issues while drawing inspiration from childhood memories and nostalgic pop culture. In 2021, Tara was selected as a member of the inaugural class of Korry Fellows at The Norwalk Art Space, where she now serves on the advisory board, supporting local artists and promoting creative expression. Tara’s playful yet thought-provoking artwork has been showcased in venues across New York and Connecticut, including collaborations with corporate brands like West Elm and 7 For All Mankind. Through her use of retro imagery, bold colors, and layered textures, Tara’s art explores social commentary while evoking a sense of nostalgia. Her distinctive and relatable work not only strikes a chord with viewers but ignites thoughtful reflection, empowers individuals, and prompts contemplation of societal issues, inspiring action toward meaningful social change.

Lauren Clayton https://www.studio162.com/

Lauren Clayton, founder and head designer of Studio 162, studied graphic design, photography, printmaking, and painting at the Cooper Union School of Art in NYC. She’s fortunate to have interned with American graphic designer Milton Glaser, and studied under Philippe Apeloig during her time there. Lauren received a grant for $20k from the Miller Brewing Company’s Urban Entrepreneur Business Grant Series to help launch Studio 162. Lauren began specialized in designing family heirloom books at the start of her business but has grown to offer a variety of creative solutions. As a designer, she’s inspired Paula Scher, and is wild about Frida Kahlo and Hundertwasser –All for their use of bold color and symbolism. She is an active artist in the lower Fairfield county and has been featured in area newspapers and magazines. Lauren is active in her community by mentoring design students, offering internships and discounted design rates to non-profits. Lauren is a Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholar alum.

5ive Fingaz  https://lovemorethanever.com

Love More Than Ever is a small guerrilla street art movement, lead by 5ivefingaz, that is attempting to shift the paradigm from Hate/Bigotry to Love/Acceptance. Love is the single strongest force in the universe. It transcends time, space, and matter. And it will save this world. There is no room for hate. Only love. Let’s stand up, together, against the hate that is happening every day in America. Against what becomes a little more normal and a little less shocking. Protest peacefully but loudly, as our constitutional rights allow us to do so. You are legitimate and your voices matter. We started our movement to remind you to be proud that you have more love to give than most people could comprehend and to be thankful for the love you receive. We must spread love and kindness, we must protect and speak out and fight against every discriminatory act committed… all in the name of LOVE.

Butch Quick  https://butchquick.com

 Butch Quick is an accomplished photographer hailing from Norwalk, Connecticut, known for his impactful work in contemporary street photography. While his professional journey has encompassed graphic design, illustration, branding, and package design, his recent years have been dedicated to the art of photography.

Butch’s approach to street photography goes beyond candid moments; he actively engages with his subjects, forging meaningful connections that result in soul-revealing portraits.  His photographic style is characterized by its cleanliness and simplicity, infused with cinematic inspiration drawn from influential photographers such as Gordon Parks, Jamel Shabaazz,Roy DeCarava, Brandon Ruffin, Mark Seliger, Helmut Newton, Ellen Graham, Helen Levitt, Peter Lindbergh, and Herb Ritts, among others.

Butch’s work has earned him a place in juried photography exhibitions across Connecticut and New York. Additionally, he curated a solo exhibition titled ‘CUBA,’ featuring an exceptional collection of award-winning photographs, showcased at Artsee Gallery in Hudson, NY.

Jahmane West  https://www.artofjahmane.com/aboutjahmane

JAHMANE’s career as an artist began in the form of “Graffiti” and has evolved into a wide spectrum of mediums including works on canvas, photography, fashion design, screen printing, graphic design, large scale murals and interior design. With years of formal training and living through his art, JAHMANE has developed a unique style that combines social awareness, spirituality, mythology and abstract language in a way that intrigues all who view his work.

Motivated by the idea that “Art” is for the viewer’s eyes and mind, JAHMANE’s work is a constant critique of the world around him fused with thought provoking concepts and imagery, which has been exhibited extensively through galleries, museums, publications and urban environments from which his talents were born.