Artist-in-Residence: Chella Man

Chella Man is a New York-based artist, curator, director, author, and advocate for the deaf and trans communities, blending the genres of painting and performance art while simultaneously exploring sculpture, writing, and live workshops. 

Chella is a mentor and resident at Silver Art Projects located in The World Trade Center, continuing to push the boundaries of what it means to be accessible, inclusive, and equal in this world.

“Art has always been my way of survival. Before discovering the language to articulate my experiences growing up, painting served as my catharsis. I believe the silence of this medium pulled me in. Ironically, I strive to display how loud silence can truly be through my work.”
— Chella Man

Seen here is Chella in his new studio space. Surrounded by an abundance of natural light, this is where he explores and creates: a blank canvas for art to flourish.

“In a city surrounded by concrete and pollution, I strive to have as much nature in my space as possible. These trunks [Solid teak stools] are grounding for me literally and figuratively. It reminds me of the world outside this city.”

“I am always asked if it’s hard to be at the intersection of all my identities—I used to believe it was! Each identity was its own battle to fight for in this world. Now, however, I realize how intrinsically tied they all are. I’m fighting for collective liberation. I’m fighting for transformative justice. I’m fighting for activism to be seen through a lens of pleasure. I want to be a part of a community that affirms one another through their humanity rather than trauma.”

For a deeper look into Chella Man, his inspiration, and his space:

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