Workhouse Arts Center Unveils Pieces of Us Exhibit by Renowned Urban Artist HKS181
LORTON, VA — DECEMBER 4, 2024 — The Workhouse Arts Center is delighted to showcase Pieces of Us by HKS181, a deeply thought-provoking exhibition that examines the essential elements of growth and life that shape our existence. This evocative collection is on view in the Muse Gallery, W-16, 1st Floor, through January 12, 2025, with a special reception on December 14, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Through a unique blend of symbolism and urban artistry, Pieces of Us examines how sight, scent, and vision can trigger memories and evoke profound emotional connections. The works draw inspiration from the natural world, comparing the process of birds building nests to our human tendency to collect and preserve memories, emotions, and experiences. The use of decaying wood symbolizes the passage of time, encouraging viewers to reflect on its significance, while the incorporation of birdhouses prompts introspection about what we gather to create spaces we feel connected enough to call home.
Hailing from El Salvador, HKS181 is a prominent figure in Washington, D.C.’s urban art scene. Known for his dynamic intensity and distinctive style, his artwork captivates audiences with a whirlwind of colors and forms that extend beyond the canvas. Over the years, his collaborations with various crews have solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in contemporary urban art.
"The idea for this show began last year when I noticed a bird’s nest in the tree outside my window, woven together with Hershey wrappers," shares artist Herberth Romero, also known as HKS181. "In my family, we hold a belief that birds carry the souls of our loved ones who have passed. When a bird perches on the windowsill or in the tree outside, it feels as if an ancestor has come to say hello. This connection inspired me to merge these thoughts into the essence of the show—portraits, hands, and scenes intertwined with everyday objects that hold personal significance. One of the portraits features Nag Champa boxes combined with the wood effects I create a nod to the deep connection I associate between the model and the familiar presence of Nag Champa in my home. It’s about visually expressing the ties between people, memories, and the ordinary objects that anchor them in our lives."
This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience HKS181’s evolution as an artist and the storytelling embedded in his creations. The Workhouse Arts Center warmly invites the community to explore this compelling collection and meet the artist during the December 14 reception. Admission is free and open to all.
For more details about Pieces of Us and other upcoming events, visit www.workhousearts.org.
About Workhouse Arts Center
The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the arts. Once a historic prison, the Workhouse is now a vibrant cultural hub offering gallery exhibitions, live performances, educational programs, and special events that inspire creativity and foster community engagement. Committed to excellence, inclusivity, and sustainability, the Workhouse empowers artists, enriches lives, and drives positive social change while serving as a dynamic platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue.
Media Contact:
Nancy Hessler-Spruill
Head of Marketing
Workhouse Arts Center
Phone: (703) 785-0804
Email: nancyh@workhousearts.org