Still processing her new transition as the incoming director of Detroit’s highly respected Scarab Club in Midtown, Dalia Reyes is more than prepared for the job after contributing to the art world for 18 years as an accomplished artist and curator. Reyes is still transitioning into her new role as she holds the title of Director at Galerie Camille until the right person is found to replace her. Reyes says she is overwhelmed with joy by the support and the feedback she has received.
“It’s scary and exciting all at the same time. I’m grateful that this is happening. I’ve been busy preparing for my other job, juggling and trying to make it all happen seamlessly. I feel like everything’s going in the right direction,” Reyes says. “Never in my wildest dreams would I think this would be me; this means a lot because they chose me.”
Reyes is heavily driven by her relationship with her immigrant roots, community, and being a Latina woman in art. They both inspire her to reach new heights in this space. “I recognize it’s one of those things that affirms the connection to the community I had already, being a previous gallery director. This has always been my passion, and I have always been supported”.
Reyes feels she needs to validate artists in this space. She wants to continue to open doors that were and are being opened for her on behalf of other up-and-coming artists. “I’ve always wanted to figure out a way as part of a parliament to keep artists paid and relevant because this work can be challenging. But if there are more of us (Hispanic and people of color), there’s more on our side, and we have validation in this space; we have innovative design, and all of this breeds creativity.”
Reyes represents what it means to be a progressive product of one’s community. “This is Detroit; we are a diverse cultural center, so it’s only a matter of time before this (artistic) world is even more elevated,” Reyes said.
Art is Reyes’s love language; this is how she communicates to elevate others. Being surrounded by other artists is essential to be seen, heard, and recognized. She is living this example daily. “We have to share our stories; art comes from people telling our stories through paintings, drawings, songs, and poems,” Reyes says.
Reyes’ love for art is undeniable. “I just don’t know how else to be!” Reyes laughs. “This is what I love to do, and I am grateful to all those that have supported me thus far along my journey. It’s an invaluable thing I do not take for granted one bit. Someone did this for me, so creating a chain effect for other artists is essential.”
Reyes will continue to curate and create art when her schedule permits. She has recently curated Kicked By a Dead Horse by artist Alexander Buzzalini, an exhibition running until April 29th at Galerie Camille located at 4130 Cass Ave., Suite C near the Wayne State University campus.
Amber Ogden is a freelance writer born and raised in Detroit. She has published work in publications such as Forbes, Chevy in the D, Model D, and Rachel Ray Every Day. She enjoys art and eating her way through the city in her free time.
