Thou Art Woman: RE/IMAGINE – Exhibit Closing Reception Recap
On Thursday, May 8, the Thou Art Woman: RE/IMAGINE – Liberating Queer Futures exhibition came to a powerful close with a community-centered reception at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum. The evening brought together artists, advocates and allies for a celebration of queer creativity and connection, drawing more than 40 guests into an atmosphere rich with art and meaningful conversation.
The event opened with a screening of exhibition films, offering intimate glimpses into the creative journeys and visions of the featured artists. The films were produced by exhibiting artists Barbara Caridad Meulener, Kassamira Carter-Howard, Katie Cercone, Neila Ebanks, Nadejak Deacon and Phresh Kidd Ice.
As the reception unfolded, guests mingled to music curated by She-J Hercules and enjoyed flavorful Caribbean bites by Sarita Martine Bistro. Vendor tables hosted Hued Songs and BLINC/Thou Art Woman invited attendees to engage with partner organizations, share their stories and learn about upcoming initiatives.
The formal program began with welcoming remarks from event organizers and community partners. G. Wright, co-founder of BLINC and a lead organizer, opened the program by setting a heartfelt tone. Vanessa from AHF followed, highlighting the connection between creative expression and community health. Alana from Hued Songs emphasized the importance of access to cultural resources and collective celebration, also offering a preview of the organization’s upcoming Juneteenth programming. Stephanie, program coordinator at Island SPACE, closed the welcome segment by encouraging guests to explore the museum’s offerings and support its mission.
Following the introductions, Wright welcomed exhibit curator Kerry Chen to lead a discussion with featured panelists Barbara Caridad Meulener, Kassamira Carter-Howard, Jai Thando of the creative duo SS. Tribe Collective, and SublimeLuv. Moderated with care and openness, the discussion explored themes such as intersectional representation, the importance of visibility in art and community, and the courage it takes to live authentically. Artists and audience members engaged deeply—sharing reflections, asking questions and fostering a space that celebrated both individual identity and collective experience.
The evening concluded with a rousing performance by L.A. the Drag King, who took the stage to thunderous applause. As the night drew to a close, conversations lingered and connections deepened. The RE/IMAGINE closing reception was not just the finale of an exhibition—it was a bold affirmation of queer futures rooted in art, community and the enduring power of authenticity.
See some photos from the event below
Thanks to Our Sponsors
Island SPACE is supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Broward County Cultural Division, BBX Capital Foundation, Community Reinvestment Alliance of Florida, “King” George Jograj, Dr. Lydia Malcom of Authentic Behavioral Health LLC, and her husband, Mr. Waynewright Malcolm, Alexandra P. Davis, and the following funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Judith Cornfeld Fund for the Arts, Helen and Frank Stoykov Charitable Endowment Fund, and The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Community Fund.
About Island SPACE Caribbean Museum
Island SPACE Caribbean Museum is a cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and celebration of the Caribbean’s diverse heritage through exhibits, educational programs, and events that spotlight the region’s history, art, and music.
The facility features a historical archive filled with information and artifacts from across the Caribbean region, a fine art gallery and multipurpose spaces.
The public is invited to visit the museum Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. General museum entry is $15 per adult and $7.50 per child. Visit islandspacefl.org to learn more.
Get Involved
If you’d like to participate in future events or to get involved otherwise, here’s how you can:
Sponsor an upcoming event: Email mu****@***********fl.org or call 954-999-0989
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Volunteer with us: https://islandspacefl.org/volunteer
Become a museum member: https://islandspacefl.org/membership
Plan your visit to the museum: islandspacefl.org/visit
Book an event with us: Email mu****@***********fl.org or call 954-999-0989
