Artistic Couch Travel: A Journey of Black Culture Preservation in Brooklyn

This weekend, a living art installation, "Protect Our Piece," will debut in Brooklyn at CultureCon, a unique event celebrating the richness of Black culture. The centerpiece of this exhibit is a couch, covered in clear plastic, which evokes nostalgia for many who grew up within the Black community. This piece, far more than just furniture, symbolizes value, protection, and the stories that need to be preserved.

The project was conceptualized by Danielle Young, an art director at BarkleyOKRP, who sought to capture the essence of her grandmother's couch—a familial artifact that held stories and memories sealed beneath plastic. As Young recalls, "The plastic-covered couch was more than just a couch. You understood it was protected because it was valuable." This sentiment resonates with many in the community, particularly in times when cultural narratives can be overlooked or forgotten.

Working alongside fiber artist Chelsea B., the couch has been hand-stitched with 19 significant aspects of Black culture. Among them are themes of Black joy, the heritage of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Black-owned businesses, and voter engagement. These elements come together under the sleek surface of the plastic, reminiscent of the protective measures families took to shield their history and identity.

Now, as the couch travels to CultureCon, it invites attendees not only to view it but to actively participate in its evolution. Those registered for the event can submit their own contributions to Black culture, thereby enriching the narrative woven into the couch. This collaborative aspect transforms the artwork into a living dialogue, engaging the community in a much-needed conversation about cultural preservation and significance.

Chelsea B. emphasizes the importance of this project, stating, "Every place it goes gives more people a chance to see themselves in the work and think about what they want to protect and carry forward." With each event, the artwork will adapt and grow, incorporating new narratives that speak to current and evolving cultural sentiments.

The couch, which had its initial unveiling around Juneteenth, aims to make its presence felt at various cultural institutions and events across the nation. Young envisions traveling to galleries and significant cultural happenings, sparking conversations about Black history and fostering a sense of community around shared experiences. "I want Protect Our Piece to keep growing and creating conversations around Black culture," she expresses passionately.

As the project evolves, it opens a platform not just for sharing stories but for cultivating a deep appreciation and respect for heritage. Those unable to attend CultureCon can still engage via ProtectOurPiece.com, ensuring that everyone has a voice in this important cultural dialogue.

The event details are as follows:

- What: Protect Our Piece installation at CultureCon.
- When: Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Where: Building 216, 63 Flushing Ave., Brooklyn, second floor near the entrance/exit.
- Access: Open to registered CultureCon attendees.

The couch will remain in New York at a gallery through November 2026, with observers encouraged to follow its journey on social media at @ProtectOurPiece.

In essence, Protect Our Piece is not merely an art installation; it signifies a collective effort to safeguard identity, creativity, and history within the Black community. It's a call-to-action to celebrate the past while paving the way for future generations to honor and protect their stories.