This season's featured artist
Dr. David A. Paul, MD, MS
Dr. Paul serves as the Adult Spinal Deformity and Neurotrauma Fellow at the University of Pittsburgh and will return this summer as Director of Brain and Spine Trauma at the University of Rochester Medical Center, Strong Memorial Hospital, located in Rochester, NY. Alongside his medical career, he is the visionary behind Bold and Gritty, LLC. Dr. Paul is not only a dedicated professional but also a devoted husband, father, son, and enthusiastic coffee aficionado.
The inception of Bold and Gritty stemmed from a profound moment when a close friend hailed him as the epitome of "Grit." This encounter ignited Dr. Paul's mission to establish a brand that spotlights the achievements of successful Black men.
Bold and Gritty represents more than just an entrepreneurial venture; it embodies a social initiative questioning, "What transformative impact could arise from nurturing a culture celebrating Black male excellence?"
In today's climate, Dr. Paul is propelled by an intensified sense of urgency to advocate for Black mental health awareness, racial equity, and the resilience inherent in Black men.
For him, Bold and Gritty transcends mere inspiration for future generations; it's about fostering a sense of belonging within a community that reveres the boldness and resilience of Black men.
Through this platform, Dr. Paul endeavors to catalyze conversations, promote understanding, and cultivate a collective spirit of empowerment among Black men.
Lenses: Art, Coffee, & Representation.
Artist Statement
"Art is about changing what we see in our everyday lives and representing it in such a way that it gives us hope." –Kehinde Wiley
Drawing from the influences of artists like Kehinde Wiley, Amy Sherald, and Jean Michel Basquiat, my goal as both an artist and storyteller is to weave together a vibrant tapestry of bold colors, intricate patterns, and vivid imagery that challenges viewers to confront the stark contrast between societal views of Black masculinity and the untold stories of men who are living each day driven to be the best versions of themselves. Through intentional use of floral patterns and bright abstract prints, each subject is thrust to the forefront in a manner seldom seen for Black men, compelling viewers to engage deeply with each image and the unique aspects of the Bold and Gritty life they represent.
With each featured piece, I merge digital photographs, existing content, and vibrant color palettes to create an enduring narrative. This approach underscores our shared history and transcends superficial representations. This is best exemplified in the Legacy Collection, where a digitized image of baseball icon Hank Aaron embodies more than just his endearing legacy as the individual who broke Babe Ruth’s home run record. The image was captured on Kodachrome film by Marvin Newman and processed by Kodak in Rochester, NY – a company known both for its photography innovation and its role in establishing racial housing covenants through its subsidiary, Eastman Savings and Loan, during the time this photograph was taken. These covenants continue to negatively impact the sociodemographic makeup of Rochester, NY to this day. Indeed, the lens through which Black achievement has been viewed throughout history is both physical and metaphorical. It is the lens of a majority White society.
The Work
