A multicolored fabric sculpture created by Kat Wiese seemed to float between the trees that framed one entrance to the Eli Whitney Barn. At the other entrance, visitors were greeted by the vibrant bodies and faces painted in vivid colors by artists Jasmine Nikole on the left and Darnell “Saint” Phifer on the right.
The music of R&B legends, courtesy of DJ Q‑Boogie, could be heard from everywhere, boosting the vibe of each and every artistic creation as Amplify The Arts entered its second year at the storied Hamden location and third year in total, continuing its mission — as reiterated on Sunday by organizer Karimah Mickens — of presenting a space for especially BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and young artists.
All were represented throughout the barn — upstairs and downstairs — and even in the backyard, where vendors and artists sat under tents just past the Beyond the Salt food truck. Visitors could get food with a ticket given to them by Mickens, who walked around greeting everyone. Mickens spoke to the crowd about how she was “so grateful” the two-day event was still happening three years later, providing that space as first intended.
“This was the whole purpose, to show art that lifts us up in a place grounded in love, community and gathering,” she said.
