Englewood’s Heartbeat: “a Game in the Alley” by Demetrius Alton Williamson Opens at The New Yard in Los Angeles “Englewood is LOVE.” This simple yet powerful statement by Demetrius Alton Williamson encapsulates the deep ties he feels to his roots on Chicago’s Southside. Now, Williamson invites Los Angeles to experience his beloved Englewood through “a Game in the Alley”—an exhibition at The New Yard that blends art, memory, and the indomitable spirit of urban resilience. In “a Game in the Alley,” Williamson takes viewers on a journey back to his childhood days in Englewood, where kids fashioned basketball courts from scrap materials, and play was found in the alleys of the city. The exhibition—comprising over 20 pieces of figurative and abstract works—evokes the gritty yet hopeful energy of these makeshift courts. Through an expert use of color theory and nostalgic exaggeration, Williamson channels the innocence and tenacity of a young boy coming of age in a place where creativity was a necessity. Williamson’s journey to this moment is as layered and multifaceted as the art itself. Born in 1987 in Englewood, Chicago, he grew up under the guidance of grandparents who instilled a relentless drive to “do something constructive.” This foundation of resourcefulness would carry him through a collegiate basketball career, professional stints in China, and a successful tenure in Corporate America. Today, Williamson has emerged as a storyteller, author, screenwriter, and artist—each title reflecting a chapter in a life that defies categorization. “Englewood taught me resilience,” Williamson reflects. “We didn’t have polished courts or abundant fieldhouses. We made do with what we had—plywood boards, milk crates, and an unwavering will to play. Rules varied, but one thing remained constant: you either won or you watched. The alleyways were our arenas, and we played until the sun disappeared behind the buildings.” Howard “H” White, a close friend and mentor, describes Williamson as a “renaissance man” whose work invites the viewer to sit on the edge of intrigue. “Demetrius has a way of layering his storytelling, blending laughter with the depths of perspective. He’s confident yet humble, an artist who creates from an insatiable curiosity. I’m always eager to see what he’ll do next.” Williamson’s story is one of transformation and evolution. Following his time at Nike and Jordan Brand—where he forged connections within the company while holding a full-time job elsewhere—he ventured into the cannabis industry, launched the imprint Research Class, and authored “A Book That I Would Read” in 2021. In 2022, he completed “31 Windows,” a cinematic anthology exploring the words and phrases that define modern society. Now, in 2024, “a Game in the Alley” marks another chapter in his ongoing exploration of art’s power to connect and inspire. Through vibrant yet raw portrayals of Englewood’s streets, Williamson captures the intersection of innocence and survival, artistry and athleticism. He describes the drive of an athlete as “the cornerstone of my foundation, expanding through art, film, fashion, photography, and music.” His goal? To merge these mediums into culturally resonant projects that spark intense and meaningful conversations. Opening Reception Details Join us on Thursday, October 17th, from 7 PM to 10 PM, at The New Yard in Los Angeles for the debut of “a Game in the Alley.” Engage with Williamson’s work firsthand, experiencing his portrayal of a community that shaped him and the indelible impact of a game played in the alleyways. The exhibition runs until Sunday, October 20th, closing at 6 PM. Free secured parking is available for all attendees. About Demetrius Alton Williamson Born and raised in Chicago, Demetrius Alton Williamson is an artist and storyteller with an unrelenting passion for exploration. His multifaceted career spans collegiate and professional sports, corporate America, and a creative journey through art, writing, and entrepreneurship. Williamson’s work is a testament to his drive as both a creator and a “forever learner.” His art provides a vivid portrayal of the world and invites viewers to uncover the intricacies of human experience through the lens of resilience and play. Press and Media Inquiries For more information, interviews, or press materials, please contact: Email: info@thenewyard.com Phone: +1 (424) 485-7464 Website: thenewyard.com Join us for an unforgettable evening of art, community, and storytelling as we step into the world of “a Game in the Alley” and celebrate the spirit of a neighborhood that taught a young boy the value of creativity, perseverance, and love. Free Secured Parking Available