Floyd Strickland – ‘The Little Devil In America’ @ Thinkspace Projects [LA]

Tonight, June 7th, Thinkspace Projects will open four new exhibitions at their gallery in Los Angeles, and all of them are worthy of attention. As our government mercilessly unleashes violence and chaos upon its own citizens and the world at large, it’s refreshing to witness a gallery not only provide a platform for artists who are taking risks to create bold, socially relevant work, but also to remain so vocally outspoken themselves.

Los Angeles painter, Floyd Strickland‘s new solo exhibition, ‘The Little Devil In America‘ shines a spotlight on this nation’s history built on the backs and exploitation of the black community. It’s a display of a rich culture and feirce resilience. A better backdrop couldn’t be arranged than the fact that the city he calls home is currently undersiege by fascists funded by our tax dollars. It’s nothing new, there’s a history of this sort of abuse of authority in the city of Los Angeles. There’s also a history of the community being forced to rise up and push back.

Strickland‘s bio speaks of a man who spent time “renovating elementary schools nationwide” and noticed a consistent “troubling lack of confidence” in brown and black children. It further states that “Strickland’s own children often serve as focal points in his artwork, reflecting his deep care and emotional connection to them. He strives to portray them as larger-than-life figures, conveying the immense love he feels for them.“

His paintings might represent hardships, struggles, and generational trauma, but they do so in a manner that exudes power and tells the story of survivors. The figures are noble, confident, and powerful. ‘The Little Devil In America‘ offers a visually arresting collection that is emotionally charged, striking, and beautiful.

The following excerpt is from the press release:

“The Little Devil in America” explores key moments in African American history, beginning with the forced separation from Africa during the transatlantic slave trade. Capitalism shaped many of these events, from the commodification of human beings for profit during slavery to the destruction of Black communities like Tulsa in the pursuit of economic dominance. These paintings reflect on the intersections of economic ambition, violence, and survival across generations, leaving space for viewers to consider the lasting consequences.

“The Little Devil in America” reflects on key moments in African American history where capitalism, violence, and survival intersected, inviting viewers to consider the lasting consequences without prescribing a single narrative.”

The opening reception will run from 6-10pm. It’s free, all ages, and Strickland will be in attendance.

Check out preview images for the exhibition below the following event details…

WHAT:

The Little Devil In America
Solo Exhibition by Floyd Strickland

WHEN:

Opening:
Saturday, June 7th 2025
6pm-10pm

WHERE:

THINKSPACE PROJECTS
4207 W. Jefferson Blvd. + 4217 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90016
(310) 558-3375

ADDITIONAL INFO:

Opening is ALL AGES w/NO COVER
Artist will be in attendance
Show on view until Saturday, June 28th, 2025
Gallery hours: Tues – Sat. noon – 6pm