Stepping into “The Seydehwon Experience,” locals are immediately immersed in artist Seydehwon Nagbe’s world of art, fashion, and storytelling.
Nagbe’s work spans multiple mediums but carries a consistent message of reclaiming the visual narrative surrounding Black representation in art.
His exhibition, The Seydehwon Experience, recently concluded at Playground Detroit, where it was on view from Oct. 15 -25.
Playground Detroit, an art gallery and creative talent agency, is dedicated to giving back to the community and collaborating with local artists to amplify Detroit’s creative voices.
Paulina Petkoski, co-founder of Playground Detroit, launched the space with the intention of highlighting the city’s creativity. She and Seydehwon first connected at an artist talk, where they began exploring the potential of the exhibition. It showcased some of his new work alongside other pieces, ultimately serving as a platform to highlight his artistry.
“The opening reception had a great turnout — the city really came out to support him, and I think that’s a beautiful thing, especially for an artist so young and early in his career,” Petkoski said. “The impact of this show is to prove that young artists in Detroit have a platform and real support here. It’s inspiring to see how many people are moved by what he’s doing and proud of his journey so far. Being a part of that through the Playground is really exciting for us.”
The exhibition drew locals from the surrounding community in support of Nagbe’s art. Among them was Dr. Aya Waller-Bey, a sociologist in higher education and an avid art enthusiast.
“I’m of the mind that art is for everyone — especially because Seydehwon is so young and has his own show here, I think this makes him even more accessible,” Waller-Bey said. “He’s a young Black man, he’s creative, he walks to the beat of his own drum, and that’s important. We need more venues that celebrate artists at every stage, young Black artists in particular. It’s inspiring. I’m inspired by him and his creativity.”
Attendee Marcus Whitted was inspired by the exhibition and its ability to bring art directly into the community.
“Art brings so much intrinsic value to being human — when you put yourself in a setting where you have to think differently, it shifts your perspective,” Whitted said. “A lot of times, people are just in survival mode or trying to thrive, but when you engage with art, it invites imagination. It becomes open to interpretation. No matter who you are, being exposed to art connects you to your imagination and maybe even encourages you to see life differently than how you’re living it.”
Artist and CCS student Jimmie Lackey focuses on oil painting and incorporates symbolism into his storytelling.
“Seydehwon seems to lead with compassion first — the painting part comes second — that's the feeling I get,” Lackey said. “From talking to people about Seydehwon, they’re really inspired by him. He’s able to put things together freely and still make a name for himself — and it’s still art. It’s beautiful. I think that inspires a lot of people.”
This article was produced in conjunction with Outlier Media.
