JEREMY BRIGGS

Band of Vices is pleased to present "be safe out there bro", a deeply- provocative and highly- charged new series of works by Dallas-based artist, Jeremy Biggers.

Some variation of "be safe out there bro" has become a standard farewell amongst a number of Black men. It's become so standard I don't think we even realize we're saying it anymore. It's a succinct mutual acknowledgment that the world we move through is unwelcoming. And by virtue of us both being Black men, "I have your well-being in mind". So when you leave this moment, do what you have to do to keep yourself and your family safe. Do what you need to do to make it back home tonight. Make decisions that protect yourself.

"be safe out there bro" is as much a command, as it is pleading with someone to take care of themselves, because you care. Whether you are both strangers or they are one of your loved ones, you both understand that you're part of a fraternity and there are experiences you both share, that no one else does.

For as many external forces as there may be, "be safe out there bro" is a reminder to keep your guard up at all times, even and especially when the person trying to hurt you, is yourself. For as seemingly small of a phrase as it is, it's a reminder that in this moment. At this exact moment right here, someone else is thinking of you and your well-being.

"be safe out there bro" features a brand new series "Combustible".

"Combustible" is a series of works based on the James Baldwin quote,

"To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a state of rage, almost all of the time - and in one's work."