81C presents Art with Voice, a student-led pop-up exhibition curated by emerging artist and student curator Gyselle Ready, currently on view at 81C in historic Charlotte Amalie through June 10.
In conjunction with the exhibition, 81C will host a public Artist Talk and Panel Discussion on Saturday, May 30 at 5 p.m. featuring participating artists and community dialogue centered around youth expression, advocacy, and contemporary social issues.
The discussion will feature Gyselle Ready, Emma Walters, Wynne Williams, ReVearth, and Kenli and Kali Merrifield, and will be moderated by Kaleah Rose. Admission is free and open to the public.
Developed from a desire to create meaningful dialogue through art, Art with Voice brings together student artists using creative practice as a form of reflection, awareness, and advocacy. The exhibition explores how young people are processing the realities of today’s world — from violence and climate anxiety to identity, justice, and social change — while also emphasizing the importance of creative action and community engagement.
Featured artists include Emma Walters, Sadie Blondeau, Halina Diehl, Elijah Ready, Cadence Caines, Riley Moscowitz, Gyselle Ready, Wynne Williams, Gianna Khemmanni, and others. The exhibition represents a collaborative youth-driven initiative that encourages emerging artists to use their voices publicly and constructively through visual art.
“What makes Art with Voice particularly significant is that it originated from an independent student-led initiative seeking to translate contemporary social concerns into a constructive public dialogue. Projects like this create meaningful space for emerging artists to engage critically with the world around them while recognizing the value and relevance of their own perspectives,” said Zack Zook of 81C.
“I never believed that this show could actually happen, and it means so much to me to be able to give young artists the opportunity to showcase their art in a more professional setting and also show that the youth do care about the issues facing our island and the world. I truly enjoyed working with the artists and putting the collection together,” said Gyselle Ready, student curator of the exhibit.
A portion of proceeds from artwork sales and donations will benefit the VI Justice Initiative and the National Immigrant Justice Center, organizations focused on supporting underserved individuals through legal advocacy and assistance.
Details:
The exhibition is currently on view Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 81C Arts in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas.
The Artist Talk and Panel Discussion will take place Saturday, May 30 at 5 p.m. Cash bar available.
Art With Voice is on view at 81C St Thomas through July 10 – gallery hours are 5-8 p.m.
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