Claire Oliver Gallery Presents BK Adams’ “Five Miles”, A Multilayered Exhibition of Symbolism And Inspiration

July 31, 2023

Harlem’s Claire Oliver Gallery Presents BK Adams’ “Five Miles”: A Multilayered Exhibition of Symbolism and Inspiration.

Harlem’s Claire Oliver Gallery is thrilled to unveil an extraordinary exhibition of new work by the visionary artist, BK Adams, titled “Five Miles.” This compelling showcase features ten remarkable, large-scale, multimedia artworks that delve into the depths of symbolism, ciphers, and recurring imagery intertwined with thought-provoking text.

Adams’ artistic genius lies in crafting intricate narratives that draw from the bountiful reservoirs of the natural world. Dried flowers and wax bees entwine with enigmatic characters like the mighty lion and the mystical blue horse, forming biographical and allegorical tales that resonate with viewers on profound levels.

As a debut solo exhibition at the esteemed gallery, “Five Miles” marks a remarkable milestone for Adams. Already, four prestigious institutions have embraced his artwork since joining the gallery’s prestigious program in early 2023.

When asked about his artistic vision, Adams shared, “My goal is to make works that are both personal and universal, inspirational, and empathetic. As a father, artist, and spiritual being, my hope is to contribute something meaningful to the community. Every element in my work bears symbolism; for instance, wearing a flower in my lapel daily for a year became a collection, gracing my paintings as a representation of life’s beauty and spirit. I aspire to uplift viewers, encouraging them to find the magic and worth in everything, no matter how seemingly insignificant. It’s our power to choose joy that unlocks this enchantment.”

“Five Miles” draws inspiration from enchanting southern wives’ tales, folklore, and fables, gracefully reflecting Adams’ sense of self and the stories of empowerment and inspiration he seeks to share. The recurring figure of the lion embodies traits of leadership, wisdom, comfort, and sanctuary. With cubs at his side, the lion serves as a profound teacher and guide, imparting Adams’ philosophy of discovering wonder within the smallest and most mundane aspects of existence.

The intricately layered and complex maps woven into Adams’ works serve as guiding beacons to navigate life’s obstacles, embracing joy, and shifting perceptions to conquer challenges. Prepare to be mesmerized as “Five Miles” takes you on an evocative journey of discovery and introspection.


This captivating exhibition will grace the walls of Claire Oliver Gallery in Harlem, NY from September 8 to November 4, 2023. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the profound beauty of BK Adams’ artistic universe.

Claire Oliver Gallery

Claire Oliver Gallery is located in Central Harlem in a four-story brownstone. For nearly 25 years, Claire Oliver Gallery has showcased and celebrated artwork, with a focus on work by women and people of color, which transcends and challenges the traditional art historical canon. Our forward-thinking program and exclusive commitment to the primary market allows for an intensive focus that has nurtured and grown the careers of our artists.

Many of the gallery’s artists have been included in The Venice Biennale, The Whitney Biennial, and biennales in Sydney, Pittsburgh, and Lyon and have exhibited works in major international museums including the Smithsonian American Art Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago, Center Georges Pompidou, The Philadelphia Museum of Art, and The Los Angeles County Museum of Art amongst others.

Claire Oliver Gallery artists are included in the permanent collections of many important museums worldwide including The Smithsonian American Art Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago, The Tate Britain, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The State Hermitage Museum, MoMA, and the Museum of Arts and Design amongst many others. Claire Oliver Gallery held the first American exhibition for the Russian collaborative AES+F, whose work went on to twice represent Russia in the Russian pavilion of the Venice Biennale. Gallery artists have received prestigious fellowships including Fulbright, Guggenheim, USArtist, and National Endowment for the Arts. Claire Oliver Gallery, 2288 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard, New York, NY 10030, www.claireoliver.com

Photo credit: 1) Books Of Daniel. 2) Better Manchild.


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