Love is Art
Pain is Poetry

Visual artist Kiyomi Knox and poet Brandy Hadden (known as Meredith White) joined together for a two-day gallery event on June 17-18, 2021 to bring attendees together for moments of love, light and empowerment.

Knox's newest series featured an introspection of love, mourning, healing and identity, and was echoed by Hadden’s words in her second poetry collection, Not Done with You ... Yet.

“When Kiy and I realized that our projects really mirrored each other in terms of theme, it was an obvious next step to come together to do a show,” said Hadden. “I have seen imagery and poetry together, of course, but typically from just one artist. What we’ve put together here is pretty special.”

“I use art as a way to express my emotions and create conversation and healing,” said Knox.
“This body of work has such a natural tie to Meredith’s poetry. They connect through pain, heartache, lust, love, and taking back self. It is an honor to get to work with some of the people closest to me in such an intimate way. I hope that through experiencing our work together, viewers will feel connection, empowered, and like they are not alone on their own journeys.”

Saturday’s show was accompanied by the beautiful music of Sierra Sellers, Pittsburgh-based singer and songwriter. The Sunday brunch event was also in partnership with Kavonna Anderson, owner of Pout Fitness, Pittsburgh’s first female-only gym. The brunch also featured a poetry reading by Hadden as well as a performance piece by Knox.

Photo credits to Aislinn Aimino for opening reception pictures.
Photo credits to Richard Sayer for Love is Art paint series shoot