Bailey Contemporary Arts Artist in Residence Program Unveils Vibrant Public Artwork
Submitted by Kay Rentz
Pompano Beach Arts is proud to announce the completion of a stunning mural by Djerlens Chery, one of the 2023/2024 Artists in Residence (AiR) at Bailey Contemporary Arts. The impressive artwork, standing over 18 feet high and 87 feet wide, depicts a serene scene of a child lounging in a field of daisies, engrossed in a book about honeybees, which surround her. The community is now invited to experience this beautiful new addition to the city’s artistic landscape on the west wall of the CRA-owned building located at 11 NE 1st Street in Pompano Beach.
“Public art depicting honeybees has become an iconic part of the City and a homage to Pompano Beach’s agricultural history,” said Ty Tabing, Director of the Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department, operating as Pompano Beach Arts. “Thanks to a Broward County Cultural Division Grant, we were able to commission this outstanding piece, which will add to the already notable array of vibrant murals in the Old Town district.”
In November 2023, the BaCA AiR program invited its 2023/2024 artists to submit mural proposals. A selection committee, impressed by Chery’s outstanding design, recommended his work during the January 2024 Public Arts Committee meeting.
“The mural represents a harmonious blend of nature and knowledge,” explained Chery. “It invites viewers to find peace and inspiration in everyday moments. The beautiful young model depicted is Camryn Mcknight, a student at Pompano Beach High School.”
Djerlens Chery’s artistic talent was evident from a young age. He honed his skills at Dillard High School/Center for the Arts and the Visual Arts & Design Academy (VADA) at Broward College.
Excelling as a muralist, the Haitian American artist’s large-scale works grace prominent locations in Fort Lauderdale, while his smaller pieces have been showcased at prestigious venues like the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens Orchid Festival, the Young at Art Museum, Parker Playhouse, K.C. Wright Art Show, FatVillage, and Mass District Artwalks.
Drawing inspiration from his mentors, Chery now shares his love of art as a teacher for the Parks & Recreation Department of the City of Fort Lauderdale at Southside Cultural Arts Center. There, he inspires young children, teens, and seniors with his skills and creativity.
