SAN ANTONIO — There is a lack of representation of Black artists across the country. A recent study showed that in major U.S. museums, only 1% of pieces were created by Black artists.

“We are here to celebrate Black art and Black artists,” said Maria Williams, the owner and curator of San Antonio's In the Eye of the Beholder art gallery.

Williams is a self-proclaimed "artivist." She noticed San Antonio galleries don't feature much Black artwork, and that's what sparked her art activism. 

“The only way they change was going to happen was with me,” Williams said.

In 2019 the Art of Four collective was formed to promote local Black artists who highlight the culture through their work. Williams decided to do more, opening In the Eye of the Beholder in 2021. 

“We needed somewhere where these artists didn’t have to question if they were going to be able to show their work,” Williams said.

Showing that Black artists are fine artists and are not limited to street or graffiti art. 

“I feel this gallery is paving the way for so many great talents,” artist Scott Achankeng said. “They are showing Black artists they are not just limited to their little corners no more. It’s a room for expansion.”

Achankeng is one of the artists featured in the gallery. He and other artists showcased work at Artpace.

“There’s just so much richness in the culture — a lot of colors and richness in the history,” Achankeng said.

There the Texas Biennial honored the group for advocating for Black artists. It was an honor Williams said validates there was a need in the art space.

“Just letting the city of San Antonio know that we have great Black artists,” Williams said. “And they too needed to be seen. Black art is as valuable as anyone else’s art.”