SPOTLIGHT
Phillip Collins, Founder, Good Black Art (#58 on UAW Map)
Can you tell us a little bit about what you do? And how long you’ve been in your current position. Of course. I’m Phillip Collins—founder of Good Black Art. I’m a Black, queer art collector and marketer, originally from Tennessee and now based in New York. I’ve spent my entire career helping heritage industries and brands reach new markets that have historically been overlooked, working across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. I’m still doing that work, but now I’ve focused my energy on bringing art to communities that haven’t had access.
I started Good Black Art in 2021 out of my own experience as a first-time collector. I remember feeling completely lost—intimidated by the art world and struggling to find work that reflected my story, my values, and my budget. I wanted to change that. So I built a company that makes it easier for people to discover, collect, and live with art in a way that feels personal and accessible.
At the heart of it, the mission is simple: opening doors to help everyone see themselves in art—and feel more connected to it in their everyday lives.
Use three words to describe yourself: Intentional, Innovative & Scrappy
What brought you to the Hudson Valley/Catskill Mountains? In 2023, I had the pleasure of meeting Deb and Mark D’Arcy—longtime Hudson residents and the founders of Creative Legion. They pitched me the idea of bringing Good Black Art to Upstate—and they were persuasive as hell. Their deep love for the region’s creative community was infectious, and honestly, I’ve been hooked ever since.
Since then, I’ve also had the joy of working closely with their partner and Chief Operations Officer, Melissa Hougland, whose shared passion for cultivating space for creatives in the region has only deepened my love for Upstate. What began as a conversation has since grown into a fully realized vision: Good Black Art's first summer residency in Hudson, running from May through September.
What do you love about your job? I believe everyone is connected to art. Every day, I get to push the boundaries of what art is, who it’s for, and how—and where—it’s made accessible. My team’s curiosity is endless, constantly awakening the artist within everyone. It’s what keeps us opening new doors and expanding what’s possible in the art world.
What exciting things do you have planned for UAW? We’ve always been more drawn to sharing art in ways that mirror its expansiveness—placing it in new contexts that invite people not just to see art, but to feel at home with it. That’s why our summer residency with Creative Legion works so well. And in conjunction with Upstate Art Weekend? Such a natural fit.
Coming off our first exhibition this summer at Creative Legion, Touching Grass (on view from May 23 through July 7—go see it!), we’re excited to continue exploring how to build generative environments in a world that can often feel overwhelming. For UAW, we’re bringing together art, film, and literature, starting with a group exhibition co-curated by artist Braden A. Hollis, who invited friends from the art and design worlds to help her build a domestic space reimagined through artistic collaboration.
We're also highlighting other mediums: film, with a screening of Who’s Behind Black Art, directed by filmmaker, writer, and producer John Campbell (who also happens to live in Hudson); and literature, with a book event celebrating Julian Adon Alexander’s debut monograph, Snakes Have Bones, published by Good Black Art and Parallel Press.
Like I said, we believe art is everything–there’s going to be something for everybody.
Best place near you to get:
Breakfast? Step off the train and head straight to Kitty’s Market or WYLDE for a quick bite. Park at the top of Warren Street and make your way to Hudson Roastery for a cold brew and warm croissant. In a rush, Stewart’s just down the block does the trick.
Lunch? feast & floret hits the spot. Walkable from Creative Legion, favorites include the food truck series at Return Brewing and Upper Depot. Just a short drive, Quinnie’s is well worth the trip.
Dinner? Klocke Estate, and another mention for Kitty’s.
What’s your favorite local store? Forts Ferry Farm Shoppe for things you didn’t know you needed! Jamestown for threads you’ll be happy you snagged.
What’s your favorite art/creative space to visit? Well, definitely Creative Legion—they're fam. I also really love Art Omi, Dia Beacon and Storm King.
What is one tip for people experiencing UAW for the first time? Put your phone down and touch some grass.
What is a fun fact about you that might surprise people? I’m a sugar fiend. If I could live off jelly beans, gummy bears, and 7-Eleven slurpees, I would.
Now for the speed round! Pick one or the other:
Valley or mountains? Mountains
Car or train? Train
Walk or hike? Hike
Sun or snow? Sun
Indoors or outdoors? Indoors
Diner or restaurant? Restaurant
Market or shop? Market
Clear or clouds? Clear
Sunglasses or hat? HAT
Abstract or realist? Realist
Contemporary or modern? Contemporary
Sculpture or painting? Painting
IRL or digital? IRL
Look or listen? Look
See or feel? See