Life in Wood: Anacostia River Walk
Curated by Luis Del Valle

Show Dates: January 31 – March 14, 2026
Opening Reception: Saturday, February 7 | 6–9 PM

Life in Wood: Anacostia River Walk, curated by Luis Del Valle, opens with a special reception celebrating the life and six-decade artistic practice of Washington, DC cultural artist John Zaire El-Badr Cauley. The exhibition is presented by Valley Place Arts Collaborative in collaboration with Honfleur Gallery.

Working primarily with driftwood gathered from the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers, El-Badr transforms natural remnants into mixed-media assemblages that explore ancestry, migration, and endurance. Incorporating wood, gold leaf, found objects, and ancient gilding techniques, the work draws from African and Egyptian decorative traditions while remaining deeply rooted in local waterways and lived history.

In recognition of Black History Month, the exhibition also includes selections from El-Badr’s Collage Collection (1990–1995)—inspired by Ebony, Jet, and Essence magazines—alongside works from his Black History stamp collection, adding an archival and historical dimension to the show.

The exhibition offers viewers an opportunity to experience a powerful reflection on memory, place, and the Anacostia River through the lens of a celebrated DC artist.