“I Do It For The HOOD.” (Pt. 1 & Pt. 2)

A Collection of Works by Antoinette Cauley

"Hood Culture" embodies a deliberate redefinition of imposed marginalization and stereotypical narratives, showcasing the resilience, resourcefulness, and distinctive style of communities predominantly comprised of Black descendants of American slaves, Indigenous People and Latinos. While the term "Hood" is often burdened with negative connotations, it is important to recognize that Hood culture is a product of systemic racism, stemming from the hands of violent and oppressive colonizers.

"I Do It For The HOOD." is an intimate and powerful tribute from artist Antoinette Cauley to her community in Phoenix through a series of paintings and drawings. As a third generation South Phoenecian who is now living and working in Berlin, Germany, this exhibition delves into the intersection between the impact of her career and the lives of Black Phoenicians through a captivating collection of portraits, including some of Antoinette's own family members.

In 2021, Antoinette ventured to Berlin, Germany, both to advance her career and lay the groundwork for aspiring Black artists and entrepreneurs in Phoenix. This exhibition, divided into two parts, emphasizes her commitment to empowering and uplifting her community through every part of her journey, including her time abroad.

Part one of "I Do It For The HOOD." takes place in Germany, where Antoinette pays tribute to her South Phoenix roots, reminding them that the world belongs to them. The German leg of the exhibition will be one night only and will take place from 18:00-21:00 at Backhaus Projects in Neukölln, Berlin. Following Germany, part two of "I Do It For The HOOD." will take place in Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.A. This homecoming event will be an opportunity for the community to meet the artist and celebrate themselves in downtown Phoenix at Modified Arts on December 15th from 6-9P. The opening night will feature live music from DJ John Blaze, low riders from Sophisticated Car Club, drinks, art and a brand new line up of merch!

This extraordinary body of work not only expresses love and appreciation for the Black community and the Hoods (of South and other parts of) Phoenix, but it also compels viewers to confront their own relationship with colonialism and inherent racism. Antoinette Cauley's artwork serves as a catalyst for dialogue, fostering introspection and a deeper understanding of our shared history.

Below is a note from Antoinette about this exhibition.

A note from the artist:

My great grandfather laid the foundation for my family when he purchased a plot of land in the early 1900’s in South Phoenix, the part of town that Black Phoenecians were segregated to until the 1970’s. He then took that land and divided it among his seven children. My grandmother still lives in her South Phoenix home (built by her late husband) on the land her father gave her. As a third generation South Phoenecian, my roots run deep.

My city as a whole means so much to me for a multitude of reasons. Without their support, I would not be where I am today. With every move I make (including moving to Germany), I always keep in mind the foundation and groundwork I am laying for those who come from where I come from and who look like me. I think about the representation I did not have growing up and know that it is now my responsibility to be the example for so many who will come after me.

So, I decided to pay a clear tribute to my hood with this next body of work as a reminder of who exactly I do everything I do for. It is a message to my community of their power and the possibilities of life. It is also a reminder to myself for those times when I feel lost or unsure- I know I can always bring it back home.

While this body of work is a tribute to my hood, my family and the Black community in South Phoenix, this collection is really a tribute to all of the hoods throughout the United States and the beauty they have created through their adversities and despite the beating down of systemic racism and violent colonization they have endured.

From my Hood to yours, I do it for You.

With love,

Antoinette

Be sure to follow Antoinette on Instagram for all of the latest exhibition and artwork updates!