Art Proposel SA | Lessie Venardo Dixon

Sharing My Art Our Community

by Lessie Venardo Dixon

My name is Lessie Venardo Dixon, and I am an American artist whose creative journey has come full circle—returning to Africa, the ancestral home that has long called to my spirit.

Over the years, my art has been shaped by travels across the globe, but it is here in Africa that I feel most rooted, most alive. Recently, I married a proud South African woman, and through our union, I’ve gained more than a partner—I’ve found a deeper connection to this land, its people, and its rhythms. This connection has transformed my identity. I no longer see myself simply as African American, but as American African—a term that honors both my origins and my evolution.

Art, for me, has always been a means of recording our history, storytelling, healing, and bridging worlds. Now, more than ever, I feel a responsibility—and a deep desire—to share my work and knowledge with our community. Through exhibitions, workshops, and collaborations, I hope to contribute meaningfully to the cultural dialogue, while celebrating and learning the beauty, complexity, and strength of our shared heritage.

This proposal is not just about showing art—it’s about building relationships, inspiring dialogue, and honoring the legacy of those who came before us. I am excited to share this journey with you and invite you to join me in creating spaces where art and community can grow together.

Artist Who Record History

I propose to create artwork that records and preserves the rich, powerful history of Africa and its diaspora—art that speaks to our youth, our communities, and the continent itself. From the lens of my lived experience in the Western world to the deep spiritual connection I hold with Africa, my vision, my hands, and my brushstrokes will tell the stories that have been silenced, forgotten, or distorted. Through color, character, and bold expression, I will paint our past not as it was rewritten, but as it truly was—strong, sacred, and full of depth.

This work is more than art—it is an act of inheritance. It is about reclaiming what is rightfully ours: our narratives, our heroes, our truth. Through each brushstroke, I aim to educate, to awaken, and to empower the next generation across the diaspora and the continent. My goal is to ensure that our stories are not only remembered, but felt, lived, and honored by those who will come after us.

Art & Bartering

I propose an agreement between myself and the Collector or Patron to engage in a mutually beneficial exchange. In recognition of services rendered and exposure opportunities provided, I will offer this original portrait created specifically for this collaboration. This partnership is intended to foster creative growth and shared success, while celebrating the value of artistic contribution.

By fostering accessibility and visibility within these communities, this initiative seeks to create a platform where emerging artists can develop their talents, gain valuable market exposure, and market. This partnership not only contributes to individual growth and level the playing field but also promotes a more inclusive and representative creative economy.

1. Artwork Contribution

The artist will create and provide original artworks that serve as visual and symbolic tools to foster connection and dialogue between influential leaders, such as Julius Malema and Ibrahim Traore.

2. Patron Responsibilities

The Patron agrees to attend the gallery’s opening event, if possible, for up to one hour.
The Patron may refer potential clients to the Artist. For each successful referral:
- The Client will receive a 30% discount on their commissioned artwork.
- The Patron will receive 30% of the value of that commission as a referral reward.
- After a successful referral, the Patron will also get 30% off their next personal commission from the Artist.

3. Artist Recognition

Wherever the Artist’s painting is displayed, the Artist’s full name must appear clearly near the artwork.
If the artwork is published or mentioned in any form of media (magazines, newspapers, online, or radio, etc), the Artist’s name must be included in print or spoken in the feature.

4. Agreement Terms

This barter is an exchange of services and recognition in return for collaborating with the artist for our community. The intention behind the collaboration is to inspire unity, shared vision, and cultural solidarity, using Art as a medium to bridge movements and voices across regions. The artwork will be created with thoughtful representation with

Lessie Venardo Dixon and other artists in our community. Our aim to reflect the values, struggles, and aspirations of the communities these leaders represent.