Live Exhibit: Alley Oop Project 2023

One of 10 artists chosen to have their painted basketball planter displayed at the Combine Toronto for an exhibition by the Give & Grow titled ‘The Alley Oop Project’. As well, Erika was the featured artist to hand-paint the basketball backboard that was displayed as the centrepiece. The exhibition was a means to raise funds for youth community sport programming.

ABOUT THE PLANTER DESIGN: I’ve always thought that the movements in basketball were reminiscent of ballet, which was something I have always wanted to illustrate. There is something poetic about the juxtaposition of the feminine movements behind ballet coupled with its required athleticism, all in the context of sport. So, I wanted to celebrate femininity and how it should also be celebrated in sport through this juxtaposition. Being feminine does not make you any less worthy of being an athlete.

ABOUT THE BACKBOARD DESIGN: My intent was to illustrate and paint a celebration of art, the beautiful sport of basketball, the coming together of artists and creatives, and the growth of an incredibly intentional brand (the Give & Grow).

Photography credits: @shrkvstudio, @mirunag, @ericblack, @lolc_entertainment