Maurice Pacius, born in 1986, is a Haitian American photographer originally from Virginia. His passion for photography began during his early travels with the United States Navy. A self-taught artist, Pacius skillfully blends storytelling with artistic expression, showcasing exceptional versatility across various photographic styles. He currently resides and works in Fort Worth, Texas.
Photography is my foremost means of expression and chosen medium. Through the thoughtful use of lighting, shadows, emotion, and modern camera technology, I craft artistic compositions that captivate viewers. I fluidly transition between reality and vivid imagination to conceive projects that solve visual challenges in both commissioned and personal work, whether stemming from spontaneous moments or carefully staged settings. My ultimate goal is to artistically document and reflect the essence of the human experience.
Justin Henderson, artistically known as Leo Hendrix, is a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans both visual arts and music. Born and raised in Tyler, Texas, Hendrix developed a deep appreciation for the arts at a young age by listening to cassettes on the way to school and drawing and doodling in class and selling them to other students.
While art was still his first love, music was in his peripheral which ultimately led him to join the band in middle school. After graduating high school, Hendrix moved to Houston, where he received a certification in audio engineering at Mediatech Institute. During his time in Houston, Hendrix worked with artist all over Texas including Lil Ronny and Yung Nation. This unique combination of talents allows Hendrix to create works that are rich in texture, rhythm, and emotion.
In 2012 Hendrix decided to go back to school and find his passion in art. He studied at University of Houston earning his BFA in studio painting. After completing his studies, Hendrix relocated to Dallas, where he has continued to evolve as an artist and educator. Now in his third year of teaching elementary art, Hendrix is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of artists, sharing his knowledge and passion for creativity.
Hendrix’s work often explores themes of identity, community, and transformation, reflecting his personal journey and the cultural landscapes they navigate. His dynamic approach to artmaking and teaching has made Hendrix a respected figure in both the visual and musical arts communities.
As an artist deeply rooted in their African American experience, my work aims to explore and celebrate the intersection of our culture, identity, and heroism. My art reimagines African Americans as superheroes, a symbol of strength, unity, and resilience. By placing African American faces and stories into these iconic roles, I aim to challenge and expand the narrative around who gets to be a hero. My art is my way of bridging that gap, envisioning a world where African American heroes stand at the forefront of popular culture.
Growing up, superheroes were more than just a source of entertainment; they represented the ideals of teamwork, bravery, and the power to overcome adversity. However, the lack of diverse representation in such iconic roles often left me and many others yearning for heroes who looked like us. My work is a response to that yearning, a reimagining of what it means to be a hero through the lens of the African American experience.
Each piece of work is a vibrant, dynamic portrayal of African American individuals as superheroes. Through bold colors, striking poses, symbolic elements, and retro nostalgia, I aim to convey the multifaceted nature of Black identity and the inherent power that lies within. All superheroes, in their diverse forms, serve as a metaphor for the strength found in our community, our history, and our shared struggles.
“The Things The Soul Will Find”
A Quest for Deeper Truths. It’s a path of self-discovery where the soul seeks answers, not the mind or body. The soul’s journey is about uncovering profound truths, not accumulating material possessions or external accomplishments. I believe we all agreed to a life assignment and must experience specific things on earth before we can return.
Each painting is something that I feel the soul has to experience.
