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Exhibition: “Portraits of Dignity: Do You See Me Now?” by Joseph Pearson
January 10 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Free
Asheville, NC — On January 10, 2026, the historic YMI Cultural Center will open “Portraits of Dignity: Do You See Me Now?,” a compelling new body of figurative work by Asheville-based painter Joseph Pearson. Steeped in empathy, social realism, and decades of artistic discipline, this exhibition invites viewers to reconsider how society sees—or fails to see—the individuals who are so often overlooked.
Rooted in close observation and an unyielding respect for humanity, “Portraits of Dignity” offers a profound encounter with people whom society often consigns to the periphery. Each portrait becomes a moment of connection, asking viewers to slow down, look closer, and witness the dignity, complexity, and presence of individuals too often unseen.
“These are people we see peripherally, people we pass by,” says Pearson. “Doing this work required me to truly see them—to pay attention to their eyes, their expressions, the uniqueness of who they are. The question is simple: Do you see me now?”
Pearson’s mission is to open folks’ awareness to our neighbors, considered on the fringe of our communities. A portion of any sale will be donated to favorite non-profits, like Pisgah Legal Services and MANNA Food Bank. Joseph and his wife Gael hope folks will consider doing the same if they have not already done so.
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