November 4 - December 12, 2023

Chelsea Tyler Marrero is a Puerto Rican/ Dominican-American artist who was raised in Lawrence. Her work intertwines painting with an introspective journey toward a higher self and explores concepts of death and rebirth, ancestral reconnection, and the chakra system as touchpoints for healing.

In this collection of figurative oil paintings, Chelsea examines her relationship with her ancestral lineage, her discovery of healing practices, and the journey of her spiritual awakening. Chelsea has an interest in helping her community heal and create space together. Through connecting to the authentic self, she hopes to encourage liberation as a practice through movement, reflection, and creative expression.

Chelsea was selected from the open call for Essex Art Center's BIPOC Artist/Curator Program, which was inaugurated this year. The program seeks to highlight and support the work of a local BIPOC artist or curator through an exhibition, mentorship, and a stipend.