Desmond Beach is an artist who grew up in the inner city of Baltimore. He finds joy in helping others realize their full potential. He is the middle son of three boys. His mother was an educator and social worker and his father managed an auto supply warehouse. As the middle son he easily found his role in the family as the mediator and the one whom his parents would leave with responsibility.
Growing up in a loving and supportive home allowed him to discover his voice as an artist and as a person. Desmond’s mother who was also a florist and his uncle, a writer and visual artist encouraged him to find his voice. He attended the first art high school of it’s kind in Baltimore County a suburb of Baltimore City. While at this school he found a sculpture teacher to serve as a mentor. Being one of a few students of color Desmond found it hard at times to find a place where he felt safe. From the relationship he formed with his sculpture teacher he found confidence in his art making ability and himself. This is why he chose to become an educator. He wants to help others find their voice and see themselves reflected in their school’s culture. He currently mentors several teenage males in the Baltimore and Washington, DC area.
His artwork is about honoring his immediate ancestors and those of the African Diaspora. He creates sacred spaces for their spirits to rest within. He is also interested in sharing the introspective moments of everyday life with viewers. His work explores the internal dialogue and duality in the relationship that people have with one another, as well as creating works that comment on the social stereotypes surrounding African-American men. He makes connections with the viewer through a wide range of mediums, including sculpture, mask and headdress, fiber arts, installations, performance, painting, drawing and mixed media. He believes that his work as an artist is a calling.
Being a member of the Mount Lebanon Baptist Church in Baltimore, MD, has also help to shape the person he has become. He has served as pass president of the Youth and Young Adult Ushers, Youth Choir, Youth and Young Adult Day Chairperson, advisor to the Youth Ministry, and Neighborhood Block Party Coordinator. He currently serves on the Pastoral Staff as the Director of the Cultural Arts Ministry. While under his leadership the Cultural Arts Ministry has hosted such events as Open Mic Nights, Art shows, Book Discussions, and Family Movie Nights. The Cultural Arts Ministry also puts on productions for Christmas, Easter, and Black History Month all of which he creates and directs.
