Ariel Dannielle
Feels Like Glitter
December 1, 2023 – January 13, 2024
UTA Artist Space, 1401 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta (Atlanta, GA–November, 20 2023) – UTA Artist Space is pleased to present Feels Like Glitter, a debut solo exhibition by Atlanta-based painter Ariel Dannielle. This is Dannielle’s first solo presentation in her hometown since her show at MOCA GA in 2020. Feels Like Glitter, which draws on the themes of hyperfemininity, human connection and joyful gathering, consists of a series of works that function as her visual journal. Each painting is a living record of Dannielle’s personal experiences, observations, and feelings.
This acrylic archive has enabled her to explore aspects of human vulnerability, racial identity, gender, and sexuality. Influenced by Kerry James Marshall and Emma Amos, Dannielle focuses on developing personal narratives within her portraits that challenge gender and racial stereotypes. By placing herself in the paintings, Dannielle welcomes the viewers to also participate in a process of introspection.
This show represents the post-pandemic freedom of returning to a vibrant social life. Dannielle uses glitter, rhinestones, gemstones, and acrylic paint to bring digital photographs from this year to life. Known for her self-portraits, this exhibit will showcase herself alongside friends, family and the broader community. Feels Like Glitter marks Dannielle’s first exhibition focused on representing specific Atlanta locations, underscoring her personal connection to the city.
In addition to her paintings, Dannielle will debut a Zine to showcase in tandem with her exhibit. Filled with personal photos and specific shoutouts to Atlanta landmarks and eateries, the Zine serves as a more personal and playful extension of her fine art practice. The exhibition will be on view through January 13th at UTA Artist Space, 1401 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA.
ABOUT ARIEL DANNIELLE
Ariel Dannielle (b. 1991) is an African-American painter born and raised in Atlanta, GA. She graduated from University of West Georgia, where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Drawing directly from her life, Ariel created large-scale paintings that depict the daily experiences of young Black women. She believes in the importance of her artwork to provide a lens through which Black womanhood can be represented and understood. Ariel’s work has been showcased at California African American Museum, Monique Meloche Gallery, Soco Gallery, Mint ATL, The Goat Farm, ZuCot Gallery, Dalton Gallery, Trio Contemporary Art Gallery, and Perez Museum Miami. She was MOCA GA Working Artist Fellow of 2019-20 and an Artadia 2018 finalist. She showcased her first mural with Living Walls x Adult Swim in Atlanta, Georgia in 2022.
PRESS CONTACTS
Carolina Adams
Sutton New York
Carolina@suttoncomms.com