The Lockdown - 2020 Collection

The Lockdown - 2020 Collection Showcases Over 50 Portraits and 8 local Graffiti Panels in response to the Black Lives Matter Movement and the George Floyd Protests.

Greensboro, NC – December 17, 2024 – The Center for Visual Artists (CVA) is excited to announce the opening of a powerful new exhibition by emerging Greensboro artist Patrick Griggs. Titled The Lockdown – 2020 Collection, this exhibition will run from January 7 to 18, 2025, at the CVA Gallery. The opening reception, featuring an Artist Talk with Griggs, will take place on Friday, January 10, from 6-8 PM.

Griggs’ collection features over 50 emotive portraits, each depicting exaggerated features that highlight the emotional and psychological toll of the COVID-19 pandemic. The series captures the emotional journey of individuals through the lockdown, reflecting a wide range of experiences during this unprecedented time.

In a unique partnership with the Interactive Resource Center (IRC), Griggs has curated eight graffiti panels from the local Black Lives Matter in response to the George Floyd protests movement in downtown Greensboro. These vibrant, powerful works will accompany the portraits, adding a dynamic layer of social commentary to the exhibition.

“We’re thrilled to start 2025 with such a compelling exhibition that not only reflects on the emotional impact of the pandemic but also connects to the ongoing social justice movements in our community,” said Sage Betts, Gallery Coordinator of the Center for Visual Artists.

The exhibition is open to the public and free of charge, offering an unmissable opportunity to experience Griggs' powerful exploration of two pivotal moments in recent history: the global pandemic and the fight for racial justice.

Opening Reception & Artist Talk

Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-8 PM

Join us for a special evening with Patrick Griggs as he discusses his work, shares his creative process, and answers questions from the audience.

Exclusive CVA Artist Member Potluck Luncheon

Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Following the opening reception, CVA members are invited to a special potluck luncheon with Griggs. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet the artist, share a meal, and engage with fellow local artists.

Join the CVA Community in 2025

The CVA is committed to supporting Greensboro’s vibrant arts community. In 2025, we are expanding our offerings to include workshops, professional development classes, and networking opportunities to help local emerging artists take the next step in their careers. Consider becoming a CVA Member Plus to take advantage of all the benefits the Center has to offer.

For more information about the exhibition and becoming a CVA member, visit mycvagreensboro.org or call 336.333.7475. Follow us on social media Instagram: @centerforvisualartists, Facebook: Center For Visual Artists.

Thank you to Creative Greensboro, ACGG, and Arts Greensboro, without which exhibitions like these would not be possible. Also, support for this organization was made available through the New Creative Investment facilitated by The Arts Council of Greater Greensboro, a division of the Designated County Partner, with funding from Guilford County and the North Carolina Arts Council American Rescue Plan Act.