Point Comfort Art Fair + Show

Hampton Art Lovers presents the Point Comfort Art Fair + Show in Historic Overtown at the Historic Ward Rooming House during Miami Art Week/Art Basel/Soul Basel 2025. Point Comfort comprises an art exhibition and the Indaba Lounge Series at the Historic Ward Rooming House and Gardens. Sponsored by the City of Miami Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Revitalization Agency, Simkins Family Foundation, Art of Black (Greater Miami Convention & Tourism Bureau), 100 Black Men of Florida, Miami-Dade Economic & Advocacy Trust, FIU-Wolfsonian Public Humanities Lab, Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, E11even Vodka and Duke + Dame Whiskey.

The Point Comfort Art Fair + Show 2025 will be an immersive experience featuring art, discussions, and community engagement. This year's theme, "Life & Times of Frederick Douglass," emphasizes the importance of struggle and self-determination. Frederick Douglass is celebrated as one of the most prominent abolitionists and is undoubtedly the most famous among them. He was a formerly enslaved man who became a powerful orator, author, and statesman. Douglass is best known for his 1845 autobiography, "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave," as well as his 1881 autobiography, "Life and Times of Frederick Douglass," which was revised in 1892 and serves as his third and final autobiography. Our ART FAIR, themed “Life & Times of Frederick Douglass,” where the spirit of this remarkable figure comes to life through the creativity of talented contemporary artists. Stroll through the enchanting Patio and Gardens at The Historic Ward Rooming House, transformed into a captivating gallery within an expansive 80x40-foot tent. Marvel at the diverse works of prominent artists—Carl E. Moore, whose expressive pieces invite contemplation; Tasanee Durrett, known for her vibrant color palettes; Musa Hixon, whose innovative styles challenge conventions; Tiffani Glenn, whose art weaves personal stories; and Chris Clark, whose thought-provoking pieces inspire dialogue. Don't miss Brandon Clarke’s dynamic creations, Benford Stellmacher's masterful craftsmanship, Phillip Shung’s captivating visuals, and the evocative imagery of Judy Bowman. You’ll also encounter the powerful expressions of Rodney “Buck” Herring and the unique perspective of Milton Mizell. This event promises to be a celebration of art, history, and community, inviting you to immerse yourself in the extraordinary legacy of Frederick Douglass.

Our ART SHOW invites you to immerse yourself in a historic collection housed within the enchanting Historic Ward Rooming House. This year, we proudly present the captivating installation “Prophet of Freedom | Featuring the Art of Alvin C. Hollingsworth.” In 1970, the visionary artist Alvin Hollingsworth unveiled his stunning Prophet Series, a powerful collection of paintings that masterfully embodies the essence of modern-day African American leadership. Drawing inspiration from iconic figures such as Frederick Douglass, Hollingsworth depicted the theme of the prophet as a profound symbol of hope and guidance in the struggle for justice. In a revealing interview with “Ebony” magazine in 1971, Hollingsworth elaborated on the essence of this series, explaining that the term "prophet" stands as a "philosophical symbol of any of the modern prophets who have been trying to show us the right way." This interpretation resonates deeply within the rich tapestry of historical and literary discourse, particularly in the context of Frederick Douglass, whose portrayal as a "prophet" is both celebrated and well-documented. Historian David W. Blight, in his Pulitzer Prize-winning 2018 biography, *Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom*, eloquently argues that Douglass himself was a prophetic figure, whose unwavering condemnation of slavery and exposure of American hypocrisy drew heavily on biblical narratives and echoed the moral authority of ancient Hebrew prophets. Like a beacon of truth, Douglass fearlessly spoke to power, acting as a "voice of conscience" and challenging the nation to confront its moral failings. Hollingsworth’s artistic brilliance shines through in his frequent use of the sun as a vibrant symbol of power, energy, and hope, intricately intertwined with the Black experience. The sun graces numerous works throughout his illustrious career, appearing in breathtaking paintings, striking lithographs, and even a stunning medallion. Within the installation “Prophet of Freedom,” we draw a vivid connection between the compelling art of Alvin C. Hollingsworth and the monumental life and times of Frederick Douglass, inviting you to experience this profound journey of freedom, identity, and resilience. Indaba Lounge Series Point Comfort’s Indaba Lounge Series brings people together ART, CONVERSATIONS, and VIBES. The word “Indaba” is Swahili for “come together” or “meeting of great minds”. Our Indaba Lounge Series includes our opening reception, art talks, cultural conversations, and our nighttime events with musical vibes curated by musicologists. 

Art of Black