Artist Spotlight: Meet Nazeer Sabree

Nazeer Sabree is an emerging contemporary artist from Philadelphia whose work explores the complexities of manhood, boyhood, and the pursuit of healing. Known for his evocative figure paintings and collages, Sabree blends traditional techniques with modern elements, creating a fresh and resonant visual language. His deep connection to Philadelphia’s vibrant cultural scene influences his unique style, which has been shaped by years of practice and experimentation. Sabree’s art challenges societal norms and the rigid expectations imposed on men and boys, using bold brushstrokes and a vibrant color palette to provoke reflection. His pieces address themes of race, identity, mental health, and justice, inviting viewers to engage in critical dialogue. Through his work, Sabree delves into the complexities of masculinity and humanity, making him a powerful voice in the contemporary art world. His art captivates both the eye and the mind, solidifying his place as a standout artist. Sabree is a teaching artist with Mural Arts’ Art Education program and he was a Philadelphia Black Artist Fellow.

Tell us about your art practice:

My practice centers around the philosophy of “The Pursuit of Healing,” which incorporates two key concepts: “Radical Empathy” and “Antifragility.” Radical empathy encourages viewers to step into the subject’s shoes, fostering a deeper understanding of their experience. Antifragility acknowledges trauma while highlighting the resilience needed to heal. My work doesn’t offer escape but confronts the complexities of being Black in the world. I explore post-traumatic growth and the stages of healing, beginning with my “False Face” series, which critiqued Black boyhood and manhood, as well as identity, trauma, and mental health within the Black community. The “gaze” in my portraits references the hypervigilance in our communities. My “TRF-98” series builds on this, examining the hidden battles we fight and the effects of trauma on the Black body. Through digital collages and family archives, I showcase both the joy and struggles of Black culture, emphasizing that trauma is not monochromatic but a nuanced spectrum.

What work do you do with Mural Arts’ Art Education program?

I am a lead teaching artist in the Art Education program, where I teach Foundation & Innovation classes to high school and middle school students.

How has working with Mural Arts’ Art Education program impacted your personal work?

Working with Mural Arts has allowed me to engage directly with my community and be at the forefront of change as it happens, fostering an outlet for students to creatively express themselves.

What was one of your favorite projects?

The annual student art exhibition at the Icebox Project Space last year.