On December 30th, 2022, art enthusiasts gathered at Second Base Vintage, a thrift store in Easton, PA for the opening of “Every Tear Heals,” an exhibition by 23-year-old artist Khalid Rouse.
Born and raised in Easton, Rouse’s collection explores ideas surrounding strength, vulnerability, and our heroes.
Upon entering the exhibition, visitors were greeted by the piece we like to call “Heroes Among Us,” A canvas painting of Bat-man, The piece was a striking commentary on the idea that heroes can be found in unexpected places, and the importance of uplifting and honoring those in our own communities.
Another standout piece was “Vulnerability is Strength,” a Large-scale acrylic painting depicting powerful, muscular figure with a tear streaming down their face. The paintings were a moving exploration of the idea that vulnerability is not a weakness, but rather a sign of strength and courage. The use of vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes added to the emotional impact of the piece.
The exhibition also featured a series of 1 of 1 hand-painted caps, and hand painted upcycled clothing adding a sense of nostalgia and history to the work.
The exhibition was a thought-provoking and powerful exploration of the themes of strength, vulnerability, and our heroes. Khalid Rouse’s use of acrylic materials and repurposed materials added a sense of history and nostalgia to the work, while the bright colors and bold brushstrokes added to the emotional impact. The exhibition was a reminder that heroes can be found in unexpected places, and that vulnerability is a sign of strength. “Every Tear Heals” is on view at Second Base Vintage from December 30, 2022, through March 2023.
Photographs by: Quintin Fernandez
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