Title: Tragic Loss of UVA Football Player Turned Artist: D’Sean Perry’s Art Honored at South Dade Exhibit
In a heartbreaking turn of events, D’Sean Perry, a talented artist and former University of Virginia (UVA) football player, had his life cut short when a gunman opened fire on the UVA campus on November 14, 2022. Alongside Perry, his teammates Lavel Davis Jr. and Devin Chandler lost their lives, while two others were injured. Perry’s dream of showcasing his artwork at Art Basel may have been tragically interrupted, but a new exhibit in the Richmond Heights neighborhood, where Perry grew up, is now paying homage to his talent and legacy.
The Love-Art-Football Exhibit, currently running until November 14 at the South Dade Black History Center, offers visitors a glimpse into Perry’s artistic journey. The exhibit features several of Perry’s artworks, including a sketch of characters from The Simpsons, sculptures of an orca, a lion head, and a Greek mythology-inspired version of himself. Additionally, Perry’s final UVA football jersey and a selection of his awards, including two honoring his excellence in ceramics at Gulliver Prep, are on display.
While Perry’s life was tragically cut short, the South Dade Black History Center aims to ensure that his legacy endures. Diara Zeigler, the program director for the center’s advisory board, expressed determination in getting Perry’s artwork exhibited at Art Basel, stating, We’ll get him there. Perry’s remarkable talent for art emerged at a young age, as he filled sketchbooks as a child and delved into pottery during high school. By the time he arrived at UVA, Perry had chosen studio art as his major, solidifying his dedication to the arts.
However, one of the most touching aspects of the exhibit goes beyond Perry’s artwork. It includes a framed display with two pictures, a handwritten letter, and a Navy blue UVA glove. The letter, written by a young fan named Cole Pratt, expresses gratitude for the gloves that Perry had gifted him after a game against Georgia Tech. Once Pratt learned of Perry’s passing, he sent one glove and the letter to Perry’s parents as a way to cherish their son’s memory.
Former Miami-Dade Commissioner Dennis Moss, who played a significant role in securing funding for the South Dade Black History Center, emphasized the importance of not letting Perry’s legacy fade away, saying, He was such a shining star with so much potential that we wanted to make sure he was remembered. Perry’s parents requested that his artwork be displayed alongside other local artists at the upcoming Basel South Black Art Show, which Zeigler gladly granted, highlighting the museum’s dedication to supporting artists in the South Dade community.
The South Dade Black History Center, located at Larcenia J. Bullard Plaza in Miami, seeks to provide a platform for artists and voices within the community, making it a fitting place to showcase Perry’s art. With the upcoming exhibition at the Basel South Black Art Show, Perry’s work will continue to reach audiences, capturing the essence of his talent and preserving his memory.
As visitors explore the Love-Art-Football Exhibit, they are reminded of Perry’s remarkable qualities. Described as a respectful and well-rounded young man, Perry’s infectious smile and love for art touched the lives of those who knew him. Despite the tragedy that cut short his promising future, D’Sean Perry’s spirit lives on through his art, inspiring others to cherish their passions and embrace their talents.
The Love-Art-Football Exhibit serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the legacies of young individuals who leave an indelible mark on the world. Through this exhibit, D’Sean Perry’s art and story continue to resonate, ensuring that his memory lives on and that his dreams are not forgotten.
Keywords: D’Sean Perry, art exhibition, South Dade Black History Center, UVA football player, Art Basel, legacy, tragedy, artistic talent, young artist, local community, Basel South Black Art Show, preserved memory.
