Visual artist Charles Philippe Jean-Pierre presented a cultural safe space for thousands of African-Americans who traveled far and wide to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Million Man March on Saturday, Oct. 10, at the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
“The intention is something so positive. It is artist-centered for the justice movement going on,” Jean-Pierre said. “I am trying to capture the 20-year journey for justice through the arts.”
Jean-Pierre believes the two pyramid-like structures that he created by hand are agents to facilitate change.
“When you go inside, stand up and turn around you see you’re alone, but it’s a good alone. The top is missing, so you can feel the sun and look up to the heavens,” Jean-Pierre said.
Jean-Pierre collaborated with INTELLECTUCOOL, a creative conversation brand that works with individuals and companies to empower artist to be better understood.
“Inside the structures there are print outs of things that have inspired me from African history, theology and philosophy,” Jean-Pierre said. “They’re all empowering and essentially a safe space.”
Jean-Pierre believes that safe spaces are essential for the African-American community especially women and children.
“To be here feels surreal in the midst of all my people, and the art is giving me a platform to communicate and to give back.”