Two York College Arts Fellows will showcase their culminating work in two exhibitions opening this Friday, June 6, at Marketview Arts in downtown York. The exhibits will run through June 28 and feature multimedia work from York College’s Powder Mill Foundation Arts Fellow and Appell Arts Fellow.
The exhibition by Devon Tolbert ‘24, Again & Again, explores animation, game development, and pixel art—and how these mediums can engage and empower communities. A self-taught artist, Tolbert uses his fellowship experience to highlight the grit, repetition, and imagination required in creative growth.
“The title Again & Again is a testament to the recursive process of trying to build anything,” said Tolbert. “You have to take it apart, create the plans, and have the willpower and drive to actually build it… It’s really about the ability to have an idea, grow, learn, fail many times, and repeat the process relentlessly without giving up.”
Through his work, Tolbert hopes to inspire others to create regardless of experience or background.
“Art isn't about a degree, but about having the curiosity to grow, fail, and learn new things,” he said. “No matter how long it takes, no matter the restrictions you may have or the opinions of others, just create as much content as possible and pursue what you love.”
Colin Goode’s ‘23 exhibition, Lolo’s Garden, takes a more introspective tone—honoring his late grandfather and the quiet lessons of perseverance, truth, and self-worth he passed on.
“This body of work symbolizes the love and nostalgia I feel towards my now late grandfather,” said Goode. “My earliest memories are of him tending to his garden, which I feel a lot of people never saw that side of him I remember so fondly.”
Goode hopes visitors connect with the emotional honesty of his work—and perhaps reflect on their own formative experiences.
“When I first started, I was scared others wouldn't be able to connect with my work and story,” Goode said. “But… I have realized that no story is too small. I hope Lolo's Garden can help others remember their own past gardens.”
The exhibitions are free and open to the public at Marketview Arts, located at 37 W. Philadelphia Street. Toblert’s walk-and-talk presentation starts at 5:30 p.m. on June 6. An interview with Goode starts at 6 p.m. followed by a Q&A. Visitors can explore the immersive, deeply personal work of both fellows through the end of June.
