In the evocative Lil' Man and the Power of Superposition, Houston-based artist Omari Cato investigates the commodification of black bodies and culture. Drawing from a background in painting and street art, Cato skillfully employs a striking palette of red, black, ochre, white, and blue, expertly weaving his visual literacy into a posterized style of imagery that prompts viewers to question the commercial representation of what many box in as experiences of Black life in the Southern United States. At the heart of Lil' Man lies a poignant exploration of growing up without a father, personified in the life of a conceptual yet familiar superhero, Lil' Man inhabits Cato's creative universe. When Lil' Man's father is abruptly deported from Houston to Trinidad, a void is left in the household, thrusting the young boy into the role of man in charge.

Omari Hashim Cato is a painter and street artist who lives and works in Houston, Texas. He has exhibited works at Aramination I and Aramination II at Freetown Studios in Lafayette, Louisiana, at LSMSA University, and in 2022's No Artist Statement at Saman Studios where he holds residency. Cato is a middle school Social Studies teacher, as well as avid BMX and bike enthusiast, all of which deeply influence the projection and subjectivity of his latest series Lil Man. 

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The free public exhibition was open from August 12, 2023 - October 22, 2023. The opening of the exhibition was sponsored by Delola, viewers were able to experience the art and connect with the artist. You can purchase works by contacting us at mgmt@sanman.company. 

For more information on Lil' Man and the Power of Superposition or other past exhibitions please contact us at 713-485-5652.

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