On a warm summer evening in Brooklyn—smoldering outside but serene within—the mezzanine of The Parkline transformed into a sanctuary of reflection, creativity, and community. On June 24, the PERETZ FOUNDATION proudly launched a new arts partnership with The Parkline, debuting the solo exhibition Around Us, Beauty by artist Laziza Rakhimova.
Residents of The Parkline and neighbors from Prospect Lefferts Gardens and Flatbush filled the space, drawn not only by the promise of art but by the deeper invitation to share in a moment of beauty and belonging.
🎨 A Partnership Rooted in Culture
The evening began with heartfelt remarks from John Keyes of The Parkline, who welcomed guests and expressed gratitude for this new collaboration. Together, we will bring rotating exhibitions and cultural events into the heart of the building at 626 Flatbush Ave, making art a living part of the community.
✨ The Art of Laziza Rakhimova
Rakhimova’s luminous, cameraless works—created using only light, water, and heat—invite viewers to pause and look deeply. Her pieces evoke the fragile systems of nature, abstract yet emotionally resonant. As the sun dipped behind the mezzanine windows, her images seemed to glow with even greater intensity.
During the Q&A, Rakhimova shared:
“I want to remind people of the delicate systems all around us that we can’t always see. The elements I use—light, heat, water—are the same ones shaping our world. My work is about noticing that, and holding it close.”
The conversation, moderated by Justin Freeman, was intimate and engaging, with audience members asking about Laziza’s process, inspirations, and her journey as an immigrant artist in New York City. The crowd reflected the diversity of our city, and connections formed effortlessly—helped along by warm bites, cool drinks, and shared curiosity.
🎶 Music That Moves
Adding to the ambiance was a soulful live set by Nico Fox, accompanied by guitarist Yoni Downs. Their performance echoed the themes of the exhibition—inviting guests to slow down, listen, and feel.
🤝 Gratitude & Vision
We are deeply thankful to PLG Arts for helping forge this partnership, and to The Parkline for opening its doors to art and community. Special thanks to Luis Reyes, Quiana Dumas, and of course, Laziza Rakhimova, whose trust and brilliance made this evening unforgettable.
Around Us, Beauty is on view through September 23, 2025, and marks the beginning of a vibrant new chapter. At the PERETZ FOUNDATION, our mission is simple but vital: to bring extraordinary art into everyday spaces—where it doesn’t just hang, it lives.
