Tell the Dear Fathers community more about who you are and what you do?
I am Dáreece Walker, a Brooklyn-based figurative narrative artist. I create paintings, drawings, and sculptures that integrate race, identity, and socio-political themes into art about the Black experience.
What inspired you to start the Unboxed: Black Fathers are present series?
A pervasive stereotype exists in America about Black fathers being absent from the household. However, I see living examples every single day that completely dispel that narrative. It is refreshing, real, and something that desperately needs to be shared. This series was inspired by a desire to challenge that toxic stereotype by centering presence, care, tenderness, and family, celebrating the actual men who show up every day. And statistics show that Black fathers are particularly present in their children’s lives.
What are the top three things you want our audience to know about the event?
- It focuses on truth and tenderness: The exhibition directly confronts false narratives by showcasing powerful, real images of Black fatherhood with themes of care and family presence.
- It’s a moving, community-centered exhibition: After a highly successful solo run at Gallery Particulier, the show is transitioning directly into the community to meet people where they are.
- The opening night is free and open to all: We are hosting a community opening on September 18, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Why did you decide to partner with The Alex House Project for this series?
The Alex House Project does critical, hands-on work supporting young adults navigating parenthood. Partnering with them perfectly aligns with Gallery Particulier’s mission: bringing directly into people’s environments—such as senior homes, shelters, and community centers—rather than waiting for people to walk into a traditional gallery, and this mission speaks to me. I appreciate my work being seen by people who might not have had the opportunity to see it in an institutional setting. We wanted these images of tender, nurturing Black fatherhood to speak directly to the young parents walking through those doors every day, and empower them.
Who is Dareece Walker as a Father?
As a father, I revel in the ability to nuture, encourage and grow with my soon to be 5 year old son. I did not grow up with my father, so I understand the impact which is why I embrace any opportunity to be there with or for my child.
What is your relationship with your dad and how has that impacted the man you are today?
My father never lived in the same house as me. We did not have much of a relationship until my teens. I found that it was difficult to connect, and I always felt judged by him for not being more like he is. As I grew older, I stopped taking it personal and realized that his life wasnt easy, and that a lot of trauma in his past has lead to a more rigid presentation of his personality. It was then, that I realized that this may be generational and that I have the ability to change things if i can be open and willing. The year my son was born is the same year my father died. Before he passed, he let me know he was proud and he loved me even though he never said it before. His vulnerability helped me feel empowered and seen, which is why I know now to never fear being vulnerable, as it might be the very strength we need.
Has anything you learned from being a Father prepared you for business?
Absolutely. Fatherhood forces you to master patience, adaptive problem-solving, and vision. Decision making and follow through are key!
How do you balance business while being the best dad you can be?
Scheduling! My wife and I have a shared calendar that we put any events, errands or plans into. I keep a regular scheulde for studio time, just like a job, and make plans for family time.
What else would you like our audience to know about the upcoming event?
The exhibition runs from September 18 through October 23, 2026, at 9 Bond St, 4th Floor, Brooklyn. It is free, and open Mon through Thu from 1PM to 4:45 PM and Fridays from 11:45AM to 4:30PM. It’s a space meant for reflection, healing, and changing the visual landscape of how Black men are portrayed.
How can people in Brooklyn and surrounding areas purchase tickets?
The event is entirely free to attend! You don’t need a ticket, but we highly encourage everyone to RSVP for the opening night by emailing us directly at contact@galleryparticulier.org
What does legacy mean to you?
Legacy means shifting the narrative for the generations coming after us. It’s about leaving behind tangible proof—whether through the community roots planted by Gallery Particulier or the visual history in my artwork—that Black fathers are, and always have been, anchored in love, strength, and presence.
What’s next for you and how can people connect with you?
During the month of October I will be an Artist-in-Residence at The Atlantic Center for the Arts, in Florida.
I will have a piece in a digital exhibition titled “ONE ACTION” , by Art At A Time Like This, where each artist requests that the audience take one action. My Action request is for people to Donate to The Alex House Project which is the wonderful organization hosting our “Unboxed: Black Fathers are Present” exhibition,
You can view my portfolio on my official website at dareecejwalker.com and follow my creative journey on Instagram at @artistdwalker. For organization updates, follow us at @gallery.parti and check the events at galleryparticulier.org
