📖 I had the profound privilege of photographing teacher, artist, and friend @katiemerz with their new murals inside the new @bklynlibrary 's Library for Arts & Culture. Katie's work and energy are kinetic and infectious, swiftly dancing between history, architecture, and play, never languishing too much in one area—a testament to their gymnastic intellect. In the midst of the shoot, they even took a moment to check out a book. Voracious information devourer. It's only fitting their murals have found a home in a space teeming with zines, monographs, and art ephemera. Throughout the shoot, we were often distracted, discussing ontology, what it means to be an artist, and what we as people decidedly owe to one another. Thank you again to Katie for letting me be a fly on the wall and for their conversation and guidance throughout the years. Do yourself a favor, go see the murals, and experience the stunning new library for yourself. Sign up for a library card, spark meaningful conversations, and allow yourself a moment to be present. @andreasteelearchitecture @nyculture #BrooklynPublicLibrary #KatieMerz

"Just riddled with hangmen and headsmen and insatiable greed." Admittedly, I wrestled with posting this here, or sharing in this way at all. I am angry, and I am discontent, but I will not stop making work. I will be focused, I will be steadfast, and I will make space for others. Eat the rich.

🍄☁️ First of 2025☁️🍄 Prioritizing studio time, connection, and presence. More art. More bikerides. More photos. #XavierPetromelis

🏠🪴🖌 #XavierPetromelis

This year was one of the most emotionally, physically, and spiritually challenging of my life. In many ways, I felt tested and tired, but I never felt alone. As this year comes to a close, the only thing I can seem to think about is gratitude. I just feel so thankful. Thank you to the universe and for all those who protected my soul. I look forward to meeting 2025 with goodwill, strength, and kindness. Look after each other—we are all we have. With all the love I have to give, thank you. 🌱

My boys 🐶🌱❤️ #XavierPetromelis

There was good light in the studio this morning. 🌄🌱 #XavierPetromelis #ArtistStudio #ArtProcess

"A good hat to hide from the lord." 🌾🌱🌄 This piece was a rewarding act of experimentation, combining multiple painting techniques and printed from a digital illustration. A huge thank you to @deepseagangster for their incredible work on the printing! This feels like the beginning of a new chapter in my process—blending digital work with "traditional" materials. I am excited to keep pushing this mode of thinking and making. #XavierPetromelis #MixedMediaArt #ContemporaryArt #UVPrinting #ArtExperimentation

Here before us, and long after we're gone. Seeking righteousness. 🌱🌾💀 #XavierPetromelis #ContemporaryDrawing

2 years with you. Who knew a heart could feel so full. Thank you, my sweet lady. To many, many more. @taylortheillustrator