On View: March 22 – May 3, 2025
Opening Reception: Saturday, March 22nd; Time: 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Artist Talk: Saturday, April 5th; Time: 2:00 – 6:00 pm
(Registration required; details to be announced)
Panel Discussion: Saturday, May 3rd; Time: 2:00 – 6:00 pm
(Registration required; details to be announced)
Galerie Myrtis is honored to present Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, a compelling new body of work by Jerrell Gibbs that challenges historically ingrained biases within the world of ballet. Through his evocative paintings, Gibbs interrogates the exclusionary ideals that have long shaped the art form, particularly the rigid standards of physicality that continue to limit access to dancers based on appearance rather than ability.
By centering Black ballet dancers in his compositions, Gibbs redefines the visual narrative of ballet, shifting the focus from Eurocentric ideals of form to the undeniable brilliance, technique, and resilience of these performers. He highlights the persistent body shaming and prejudice in the field, which continue in many institutions.
Gibbs’ work finds kinship with the artistic legacy of Edgar Degas, whose groundbreaking sculpture Little Dancer Aged Fourteen once challenged 19th-century notions of beauty and class. Just as Degas disrupted the status quo of his time, Gibbs offers a new perspective—one that insists on inclusion and recognition for dancers who have been historically overlooked.
In Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, Gibbs invites us to question ingrained aesthetic norms and imagine a ballet world where excellence is measured by artistry and technique rather than outdated, exclusionary ideals. Through this body of work, he fosters a necessary dialogue—one that reclaims space, celebrates Black dancers, and affirms that ballet belongs to all who dedicate themselves to its craft.
The exhibition will be held from March 22 – May 3, 2025 at Galerie Myrtis. Gallery hours: Wednesday – Saturday from 2:00 – 6:00 pm by appointment. Hours are extended during special events. For additional information on this exhibition, please contact the gallery at (410) 235‐3711 or Ky Vassor, Assistant Director, at [email protected]. For sales inquiries, please contact our Sales Director, Noel Bedolla, at [email protected].
