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M&T FIRST FRIDAY: Pride! Queering the Collection with Soda

Friday, June 5, 2026

6 pm - 7 pm EDT

FREE with Pay-What-You-Wish Admission
Floor 3 Galleries, Gundlach Building

Join visual artist Soda Haley at the Buffalo AKG for a one-of-a-kind "Queering the Collection" Community Insights tour through Let Us Gather In A Flourishing Way


Soda Artist Statement

As a queer painter and pastel artist, I boldly use the human figure as a vessel to explore our shared humanity and the intricate complexities of identity and experience. My work is firmly rooted in expressionism, capturing the dynamic interplay of self, community, and environment through a lens shaped by my personal journey. In navigating my own struggles and embracing the stories of others, I delve into the depths of emotions, trauma, and resilience, all conveyed through a vibrant spectrum of color.

My art reflects the complexities of queerness, showcasing both the challenges and the beauty of living authentically in a world that often seeks to define us. Each piece invites the viewer to engage with a narrative that may feel familiar, intimate, or even uncomfortable, challenging them to reflect, relate, or resist. With a diverse range of canvas sizes, I engage viewers on a deeper level, urging them to immerse themselves in the emotional layers I’ve crafted. Ultimately, I aim to foster connection, understanding, and healing—encouraging the viewer to feel, experience, and derive meaning from the raw vulnerability of my work.

SPONSORS

This event is part of M&T FIRST FRIDAYS. M&T FIRST FRIDAYS is presented by M&T Bank.

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