Aya Brown: “Free, in the Quiet of the Corner”

Free, In the Quiet of the Corner is artist Aya Brown’s first solo presentation, exhibiting a new series of collages on paper inspired by her residency with BOFFO in the Fire Island Pines. 

In her painting and drawing practice, Aya often depicts Black lesbian women. The Pines—a hamlet that has long been a haven for primarily gay men—offers moments of queer escapism for its residents. Yet, utopian ideals of liberated self-expression grate against the realities of racism, sexism, and gender discrimination. Brown has been inspired by the idea of cruising and the contrast between Black lesbian women and white gay mens' experiences of desire, intimacy, and sense of place on Fire Island. In this presentation, pencil drawings made on brown paper, a trademark of her practice, are collaged onto photographs she’s taken of deserted and secluded locations on the island, creating an aspirational world where Black lesbians are more present in the Pines, and able to find freedom in moments of physical connection. 

Taking its name from a lyric in the 1978 song “Lindo” by Brazilian singer Wanderlea, Free, In the Quiet of the Corner insists upon visibility for Black queer women while adopting the spirit of sexual liberation that defines the Pines. Previously in her practice, Brown has turned to history and photographic archives for inspiration. In this body of work, she instead looks to the future, projecting possibilities through her collages and creating a world where fear of oppression and objectification have no impact on Black lesbian intimacy.