On ya side with Mars Jackson - D.S Kinsel Artist's Talk

“On ya side on Saturday” read the text which included a link to his artist talk on the North Side of Pittsburgh at City Books, I replied “I’m there bro”. 

Tucked off on Galveston Avenue, City Books is a small, independent bookstore that moved to the North Side around 5 years ago. The owner Arlan Hess, conducted the artist talk with Kinsel. She asked a series of question about the artist’s background, upbringing, and what inspired his style. Kinsel who I often look up to as a mentor, is an award-winning creative entrepreneur and cultural agitator. Kinsel is also the co-owner of BOOM Concepts, a creative hub dedicated to the advancement of black and brown artists representing marginalized communities located in Garfield. To be honest, D.S is somebody who you may want to tap in with when you’re in the city of Pittsburgh on many levels, especially when it comes to community. 

During the artist talk he explained the cultural differences many black men and women face in Pittsburgh. Including stories of his own parents’ journey, which struck a conversation with one participant in the audience. As Kinsel explained to the participant as well as the rest of diverse group, you must listen with open ears to what black people in the city of Pittsburgh are telling you from their OWN experiences. Something you can strongly see from Kinsel’s art. 

Totems, Sacrements, & Shrines by D.S. Kinsel, will run until February 29th in the IAMB Gallery. The exhibition (and accompanying book) features photographs documenting Kinsel’s street art practice of creating temporary unsanctioned sculptures/installations of public art in urban settings.  You can purchase the book from City Books or Boom Concepts.  

 Go Explore, get uncomfortable, and learn something new. 

- Mars Jackson

To find out more about this event please visit: https://citybookspgh.com/kinseltalk/