Join the Chicago Galleries Meetup Group for an afternoon of exploring the city’s awesome art scene! We’re kicking things off at the Evanston Art Center (1717 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201) to check out *Four Virtues: Wonder*, a stunning photo exhibition by Eli Williamson. This series shines a light on the virtues of Black men and boys, celebrating Fatherhood, Work, Wonder, and Fellowship through incredible imagery. It’s all about showing their strength, complexity, and resilience in the face of tough narratives.

This is a great chance to hang out with fellow art lovers, meet new people, and chat about the artwork in a laid-back setting. Plus, Eli will be there for an artist talk, so you’ll get to hear the stories and ideas behind the photos straight from him.

Whether you’re an art gallery pro or just curious to dive in, this event is for everyone. Come discover new talent, share your thoughts, and enjoy some good vibes. Light refreshments will be served—hope to see you there!

Iyonna Rivers

Chicago Galleries Meetup Group

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How can photography like Eli Williamson’s change how we see different communities?

Eli Williamson is a talented photo essayist born and raised on Chicago’s vibrant South Side. His work focuses on street photography that captures the intimate moments of Afro-American diaspora communities—the very foundation of global popular culture. Through his lens, Eli tells powerful stories of Black men and boys, challenging harmful stereotypes that impact their well-being and the cohesion of their communities.

Eli combines his striking images with written narratives, offering his audience a deeper understanding of his perspective as a Black father and nonprofit leader in the communities where he lives and works. His photography highlights themes of color, connection, and community resilience, creating authentic depictions of the Afro-American experience that resonate far beyond the neighborhoods he photographs.

His current project, *Four Virtues*, is a four-part monograph exploring the virtues of Black men and boys through photo essays and written reflections. The first virtue, *Fatherhood*, was showcased at the Evanston Art Center in 2023. The second, *Work*, followed in 2024. The third virtue, *Wonder*, will be on display at the Evanston Art Center starting January 2025.

Let’s Connect: Art, Vibes, & Community

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