As communities mark Black History Month by honoring the achievements and cultural contributions of African Americans, the Evergreen Park Public Library is spotlighting the work of South Side artist Garrick LaMont Smothers, known in the art community simply as G.L.
Smothers is exhibiting 15 pieces at the library, with a public reception scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19. The show runs through the end of February.
The Evergreen Park Public Library is located at 9400 S. Troy Ave., Evergreen Park.
“Most people, particularly from the art scene simply call me G.L.,” he said. “I’m primarily a Visual Artist with other creative interests like jewelry making and performing piano.”
Originally from the Chicagoland area, Smothers said he lived in Beverly the longest and also spent time staying with a friend in Evergreen Park. He is currently residing in Calumet City with a cousin while planning his return to Beverly or Evergreen Park.
He studied industrial design at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio, a background that continues to influence his disciplined, methodical studio practice.
The works on display represent a departure from his typical bold, color-driven style.
“Most of the work currently displayed at Evergreen Park Library is very recent and a bit of a diversion from my typical style which is generally characterized by bold lines and color,” Smothers said. “I showed at the library last year and wanted to present something different this time.”
This exhibit features pen-and-ink drawings in the smaller pieces and acrylic paint in the larger works. The collection centers on abstract forms and faces, approached with minimalism and careful attention to detail.
“These pieces are inspired by abstract forms and faces with a somewhat minimalist approach with attention to details,” he said. “Generally my approach comes from a spiritual space. My studio practices are quite meditative, mindful, and methodical.”
Libraries themselves have become part of that creative rhythm.
“I spend a great deal of time at libraries,” Smothers said. “Sketching in the private study rooms, if they’re available, is the perfect setting for me sketch without unwanted distractions.”
Smothers said his love of art began in childhood.
“Art has always been a form of escape for me since childhood,” he said. “My home life was very sheltered. So I spent a lot of time using my imagination to pass time.”
Drawn to the solitary nature of painting and drawing, he initially kept his talent private.
“It wasn’t until I was encouraged to pursue it professionally that I gained the confidence to even share it,” Smothers said. “Even though I knew I had the ability to draw it was sort of a hidden gift when I began to visually articulate a certain style.”
As that style developed, rooted in abstraction, so did his perspective.
“I started to see the world from a different perspective and lean heavy towards the unpredictable nature of the abstract aesthetic,” he said.
Through the exhibit and reception, the library’s Black History Month programming highlights not only national figures but also local artists whose work continues to shape the cultural fabric of the South Side and surrounding communities.