Born on the Bicentennial: Philadelphia Artists of 1976
Celebrate Philadelphia’s creative spirit through the eyes of seven artists born in 1976, the year of America’s Bicentennial. Curated by Cherry Street Pier resident artist Bonnie MacAllister, Born on the Bicentennial brings together a diverse group of painters, designers, storytellers, and multidisciplinary artists whose work reflects the culture, creativity, and experiences that have shaped the city over the past 50 years. Free and Open to the Public.
Opening Reception: First Friday, August 7, 5–7 pm
Featured artists include Shawn Alleyne, Anastasia Crisostomo-Dawan, Justin Duerr, Bonnie MacAllister, Athena Astraea Scott, Keni Thomas, and Michael N. Thomas. Through painting, mixed media, illustration, design, and storytelling, the exhibition explores identity, community, imagination, and the evolving American experience.
Presented during Philadelphia’s America 250 celebrations, this special exhibition highlights a generation of artists whose lives began during the nation’s Bicentennial and whose work continues to shape the city’s cultural landscape today.
Join us for the opening reception on August 7 and experience this unique celebration of art, history, and Philadelphia creativity.
About the Artists
Shawn Alleyne is a Philadelphia-based multidisciplinary artist originally from Barbados whose work blends sci-fi, mythology, Afro-aesthetics, hip-hop, and Caribbean influences into bold visual storytelling. He is the founder of Artmada and The Xion Network and co-founder of Street Team Studios, organizations dedicated to building creative community and collaboration.
Anastasia Crisostomo-Dawan is a real estate professional, community advocate, and contributor to Diaspora DNA Story Center, a living archive dedicated to preserving and sharing cultural stories. Her work bridges community development, public policy, and storytelling, helping connect people, places, and history across Philadelphia.
Justin Duerr is a Philadelphia artist, musician, writer, and researcher whose work draws inspiration from mythology, folklore, pop culture, and the mysteries hidden in everyday life. His internationally exhibited artwork and research on the famous Toynbee Tiles were featured in the award-winning documentary Resurrect Dead: The Mystery of the Toynbee Tiles.
Bonnie MacAllister is a fourth-year Cherry Street Pier resident artist whose multidisciplinary fiber art practice explores storytelling, nature, and community engagement. An internationally exhibited artist and educator, she has received grants, artist residencies, and a Fulbright-Hays Fellowship while creating interactive art experiences both locally and abroad.
Athena Astraea Scott is a Philadelphia-based interdisciplinary artist whose work combines fine art, design, and storytelling. A graduate of PAFA, she has received fellowships from Mural Arts Philadelphia and InLiquid and has exhibited widely throughout the region.
Keni Thomas, also known as Thomcat23, is a Philadelphia visual artist whose work uses humor, pop culture, and bold imagery to explore social, political, and environmental themes. A former sports marketing designer, he now works independently and co-founded Philly Otaku, a community celebrating anime, art, and fandom.
Michael N. Thomas is a New York-born painter, designer, and mixed-media artist whose work is inspired by the vibrant culture, music, and street art of New York City. Influenced by post-punk music, graffiti, and Nuyorican poetry, he creates colorful, textured works that blend personal history with contemporary expression.
What to Know Before You Go:
Parking on-site will be limited due to construction on the I-95 CAP. However, there are many great ways to access the Waterfront, including walking and biking along the Delaware River Trail, rideshare, and public transit. To ensure a seamless visit, guests can visit the Know Before You Go guide for parking recommendations, directions, FAQs, and more.