Bélizaire is a queer, black-owned brand offering curated experiences with a foundation in art, blackness and queerness.

We celebrate queer & black+ individuals and learn about art history through figure drawing.

We host a monthly figure drawing session on the last Sunday of each month in Williamsburg ,BK. A percentage of ticket sales from every figure drawing session is donated to organizations that support the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and Belizaire’s mission.

WE ARE BÉLIZAIRE.

Origin of “bélizaire”

The origin story begins in the 19th century, when Bélizaire, an enslaved Afro-Creole teenager, became a significant figure in America. He was depicted in a painting called Bélizaire and The Frey Children, which showcased the complex dynamics between masters and their slaves.

Interestingly, during the early 20th century, Bélizaire's portrayal in the painting was intentionally hidden. It was only through a meticulous conservation process that his presence was finally unveiled.

Despite enduring the hardships of the Civil War, Bélizaire managed to survive and witness the dawn of freedom.

Bélizaire's narrative is a poignant example of erasure. Throughout history, black individuals, particularly their representation, have often been subjected to such practices.

The primary objective of the Bélizaire brand is to reveal these narratives, foster a sense of belonging, and above all, commemorate the essence of the black form in the realm of art.

At the beginning of the 1900s, his depiction in the painting was intentionally covered up. His figure was only made visible again after a meticulous restoration process.

Mission

Our mission is to create spaces and curate experiences that allow us to  build community and celebrate the black form while bringing an awareness to and reclaiming  black art history & it’s erasure. Through our activations, we pledge to align Bélizaire  with organizations that compliment our mission and serve our community by donating a percentage of sales to causes we believe in.

meet the FOUnders


  • Co-Founder + Creative Director

    Originally from Jacksonville, FL, Will is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice blends both visual and performing arts. He obtained a BA in Theater from Colombia College Chicago before delving deeper into performance through a critical theory lens at NYU Tisch School of the Art’s graduate Performance Studies program.

    As an artist, their creative endeavors center on the intersection of black- queer identity and magical realism, weaving narratives that captivate and challenge perceptions. Beyond their artistic pursuits, they serve as director of a non-profit committed to supporting artists with disabilities, advocating for inclusivity and empowerment within the NY creative community.

    Will is dedicated to advocacy, uplifting the voices of marginalized folks, and an unshakable believer in the transformative power of art to drive social change. Will uses his fluidity as both an artist, curator, and researcher to cultivate spaces that celebrate diversity,provoke thought, challenge norms, and inspire collective growth.

    will@wearebelizaire.com


  • Co-Founder + Director of Ops

    Brandon is a Creative Producer, who believes in the power of storytelling to inspire change and challenge societal norms. As a queer black individual, he brings a unique perspective to his work, always striving to highlight the intersectionality of his identities and bring visibility to marginalized voices.

    Driven by a deep sense of purpose, Brandon is passionate about redefining societal standards of beauty and advocating for radical self love. He believes in the importance of embracing one's true self and celebrating the diversity of human experiences.

    Through his work, Brandon aims to inspire others to embrace their authenticity and to recognize the beauty in their own unique stories, experiences and expressions. With a commitment to inclusivity and representation, he is dedicated to amplifying voices that have been historically silenced and marginalized through art, education and community.

    brandon@wearebelizaire.com