Carry On Tradition from Walter Cruz on Vimeo.
Heather Grey Gallery presents “Carry on Tradition,” a new solo exhibition by multimedia artist Walter Cruz, showcasing from May 18 to August 3, 2024. Cruz’s textured works explore his Dominican heritage and upbringing in New York City, weaving together influences from Hip-hop, Salsa, Dominican masks, and Congolese sculpture. Through mixed media pieces featuring Cruz’s signature materials, the exhibition delves into inherited traditions and their impact on cultural identity.
Heather Grey Gallery held the opening reception for Carry on Tradition on May 18, 2024, at the historic Hooper House, at 100 E 23rd St, Baltimore, MD.
The opening reception proved that Walter Cruz is truly valued in Baltimore. Even though Walter resides in NYC, Baltimore is definitely a part of him.
On June 15, 2024, Walter Cruz hosted a rope-making workshop prior to an artist talk with Mark Melonas of Lukeworks, moderated by Michael E. Haskins, Jr. of Heather Grey Gallery within the Hooper House.
The ropemaking workshop brought together an intimate group of folks, who were all immediately awed by the instant gratification provided by the teachings of Walter’s ropemaking process.
As for the talk, bringing Walter Cruz together with Mark was a seed surely planted. Outside of getting both artists’ and professionals’ outlook on concrete, Walter discussed his wishes to go big, sculpturally. During the talk, we found out that Mark might be able to assist Walter in that endeavor.
The mood at the talk was curious and eventful. We held the talk on the Hooper House grounds, enjoying how the concrete bleacher-style seating complimented Walter’s indoor work (Walter’s exhibiting pieces bring outdoor elements inside). Sharing the outdoors with us was the concurrent Pride Festival and Fleet Week.
We have decided to extend Walter Cruz’s show through Artscape, with the closing reception for Carry on Tradition on August 3, 2024.
Artscape is one of America’s largest outdoor arts festivals. Originally crafted to showcase Baltimore’s cultural flair, Artscape has been a driving force for community support, economic growth, and investment in the Mount Vernon, Bolton Hill and Charles North and Station North Arts District.
“Carry on Tradition” will be on view at Heather Grey Gallery’s Hooper House location from May 18, 2024 to August 3, 2024, Heather Grey Gallery at Hooper House is located at 100 E 23rd St, Baltimore, MD 21218. For press inquiries or further information, please contact heathergreygallery@gmail.com.
This article is provided to you via a text interview between Alicia Astronomo, director and editor-in-chief of vomitmouth blog and magazine, and Michael Haskins, Jr., visionary and director of Currency Studios and Heather Grey Gallery. The content has been edited for print by Alicia Astronomo and Michael Haskins, Jr.