Splashes of robust color. Dramatic portraits of American blues and jazz icons. Paintings anchored in movement and style. All of this, and more, can been seen in “Art in Motion: Works by Jerry Prettyman,” the latest exhibition in The Gallery at Broadmead sponsored by the Broadmead Arts Council. The exhibition opens on February 4 and runs through May 1, 2025.

Prettyman has described his work as “exploring themes of spirituality, resilience and hope, incorporating vibrant color, dynamic shapes and evocative imagery.” He brings a variety of mediums to his pictures—acrylics, oils, watercolors, sometimes colored ink. In an Artist’s Statement, he writes, “My paintings contain various elements of cubism, abstraction, and expressionist elements, with very special attention to design, color and composition.” Prettyman paints with the intent of engaging the viewer. He wants observers of his work “to connect with what they see. It’s not what I get; it’s what you get.”

Prettyman was the 2024 recipient of the Baltimore MET Gala’s “Artist Icon Award.” He was cited for negotiating “the fluidity, urgency, and rhythmic beauty of jazz and blues music and the cultural and social dimensions of the global African diaspora.” A graphic designer and illustrator for more than 40 years, Prettyman studied Fine Art at Morgan State University, and Applied Art and Design at Catonsville Community College and Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). His work resides in private collections and institutions around the world.

A reception for the artist will be held on Saturday, February 8, from 3:00-5:00pm. Underscoring Prettyman’s lifelong attachment to American blues and jazz and the musicians who perform it the reception will feature music by The Cyrus Mackey Trio.

This self-guided exhibit is located throughout the first floor of the Broadmead Community Center, 13801 York Road, Cockeysville, MD 21030. The exhibit is open daily between the hours of 1:00-4:00pm. Visitors are asked to check in with the upper-level reception desk upon arrival and sign the guest book located outside of the Auditorium.