Avi Young is a queer Afro-Latinx artist whose work reflects their vibrant cultural heritage and passion for storytelling. Their practice explores the semiotic relationships between materials, often centering the human figure in tender portrayals of marginalized communities. Through textured, intimate narratives, their work celebrates identity, fosters empathy, and highlights the power of connection. Bearing Bonds depicts the silhouettes of two figures, the adolescent and the mentor extending their arms towards each other but unable to reach one another. This installation serves as a visual metaphor for the different challenges of connection as an effect of physical distance, systemic divides, or emotional barriers. By bridging the silhouettes together with melodic chimes, the artist symbolically creates significant connections and communication.

‍

About the Artist

Avi Young is a graduate of the Design and Architecture Senior High where they balanced art and STEM studies, including marine biology research at the Frost Science Museum. Young honed their craft at the Kansas City Art Institute, focusing on ceramics and material exploration. Since 2021, they have been an associate artist at the Bakehouse Art Complex, contributing to Miami’s dynamic creative community.

‍