Watson Mere: On Fire, Vodou, and Shango | States of Creation

EFA Studio Artist Watson Mere joins curator Maty Sall on her podcast States of Creation.

“On this episode, Watson speaks about Haitian Vodou and his deep connection to Shango—the Orisha of fire, thunder, and justice. Our conversation explores painting as a portal between the spiritual and physical worlds, and fire as a force of both destruction and renewal—from the burning sugarcane fields of Belle Glade, Florida, to his canvas.

Watson also reflects on what it means to release such deeply personal works into the world, and how he navigates conversations about them with his collectors.”

Watch the first and second episodes here.

Watson Mere: African Voices Presents Lineage

Cover of Summer/Fall 2025 issue of African Voices. Work by Watson Mere of artist and activist Harry Belafonte

EFA Studio Member Watson Mere will present work in an exhibition hosted by African Voices, and his work is featured on the upcoming issue’s cover.

“On Sat., July 26, 2025, African Voices magazine will host an opening exhibition for Brooklyn artist Watson Mere and a launch celebration for our special issue honoring the art and activism of Harry Belafonte! Mere's art graces the front cover of our Summer/Fall 2025 issue. We invite you to enjoy an afternoon of art and celebration. Contributors from the issue will share their poems and stories, including writer Gia Anasi-Shakur who will share her work. The event is free and open to the public. Donations are welcomed. The event will be held at the AV Gallery, 325 Lafayette Ave. (corner of Grand Ave.) in Brooklyn.

"We're proud to showcase Watson Mere's art and celebrate the legacy of actor and activist Harry Belafonte whose film Beat Street helped defined New York City as the capital of Hip Hop culture and art. He was one of the first 'Artvists' who leveraged his influence as a world-class actor to fight for justice during the Civil Rights era," said publisher Carolyn A. Butts. "Our issue, guest edited by award-winning poet Keisha-Gaye Anderson, is timely as we are continuing the struggle to preserve our cultural institutions and access to jobs, education and affordable housing.’”

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