The velvet houR 2.14.2026
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In the early stages of my art career, I never missed an opportunity to incorporate my art into any event I was invited to, no matter the cost. I would often pay exorbitant fees to fly with my large canvases and arrive at the event with no idea what would happen.
So, when I received a call from a former college classmate informing me about his upcoming appearance on The Dr. Oz Show for a health and fitness segment, I immediately began brainstorming ideas for a painting. I dedicated a week to creating the artwork, carefully packed it, and hoped on a plane to New York hoping for the best. With my canvas in hand, I confidently entered the ABC studio located on the upper west side of Manhattan.

Fortunately, the painting was an impressive size, impossible to overlook. It felt like a triumph initially, as I made my way past the bustling production crew backstage. They were frantically brainstorming ways to showcase the painting on the show. However, just as we were still behind the scenes, a producer with a scowl on his face marched through, shaking his head disapprovingly.
The moment arrived for my classmate to step onto the set and perform his segment. Although I never received a definitive confirmation that the painting would or would not be featured on air, I convinced myself that the entire experience was still worthwhile. Surely, I thought, I would have an opportunity to present him with the painting after the show.

As the crowd erupted in applause, I assumed the show had concluded. Yet, in a thrilling turn of events, one of the other producers came and ushered me onto the stage where I had the chance to present the doctor with the artwork live on air.

Ultimately, art emerged victorious. The show aired on season 9 in December of 2017.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the opening of The Velvet Hour. The energy in the room and the conversations around the work meant more than I can put into words.
If you would like to experience the exhibition in person before it is taken down, please contact Johni Bleu to arrange a private viewing.
Thank you for being part of it — and for continuing to support the arts.
🤍
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