In celebration of Juneteenth, we’ve built a tradition here at Galleria Dallas of collaborating with local artists to create designs that evoke the joy and power of the holiday.
This June, Freedom by Devon Deshaun is on display in our Artist Collective gallery, and he was commissioned to create a design for annual Juneteenth t-shirt that evokes the joy and power of the holiday.
His custom T-shirt design was distributed to Galleria Dallas visitors in celebration of Juneteenth. Through symbolism and storytelling, Devon’s collection and t-shirt design honors the vibrant spirit of individuality and the boundless possibilities that unfold when we embrace who we are.
During the installation of his gallery in the shopping center, Devon shared some insight with us on his creative process and what makes this collection so special to him.
What was the purpose for the Freedom collection?
The Freedom collection is made up of pieces that are meant to encourage dreaming beyond boundaries, expressing your inner voice, loving openly, and existing unapologetically as yourself.
What were you hoping your design for this t-shirt would make viewers feel?
I want the people to sense, see, and have the feeling of freedom. What would you feel if you found out you were free? That was what I was trying to capture in my design for the t-shirt at Galleria Dallas.
What do you typically like your art to portray?
I like to portray feelings and emotions through my art but in a different way that includes representation.
What is your favorite piece you’ve created?
When it comes to my pieces, none of them are my favorite. A lot of them are my babies. It’s a special moment that I have with each of them when I’m creating, and each of them hold a spot in my heart. If I had to choose a favorite, I’d say whatever I’m creating that’s new.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by life itself. I’m inspired by love and harmony and unity. I’m inspired by the hope in the feeling of what I think the world should be.
You can see Devon DeShaun Francis’ Freedom collection here at Galleria Dallas on Level 1 near The Westin through July 27th.
