AINSLEY BURROWS
ARTIST / AFROFUTURIST
I am a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans novel writing, poetry, music, visual art, and performance, each reflecting my deep passion for human connection, community, and cultural transformation. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, raised as a young adult in Brooklyn, New York and now based in Baltimore, Maryland, I have dedicated my life to creating meaningful and impactful experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. From painting and spoken word poetry to The Sweet Spot and the Art Soiree, my artistic ventures reflect not only my creative vision but also my unwavering commitment to using art as a tool for empowerment and dialogue.
My career began with poetry and performance, where I used spoken word to explore raw emotions and complex ideas, sharing these works with audiences around the world. Over time, I expanded my practice to include visual art, developing distinct methodologies like NeoChaos and String Theory that push the boundaries of abstraction while exploring themes of identity, resilience, and history. My Immigration series, for example, reflects the complexity of immigration and the interconnectedness of humanity, offering a visual metaphor for the unsung contributions immigrants make to holding society together.
One of my most significant ventures is The Sweet Spot, a groundbreaking modern burlesque production that blends poetry, comedy, dance, and music. Since its creation in 2006, the show has championed sex positivity, inclusivity, and self-expression, offering audiences a liberating space to embrace their individuality. With performances in over 40 cities, The Sweet Spot has become a national cultural phenomenon, touching thousands of lives and challenging societal taboos along the way.
In addition to The Sweet Spot, I co-founded the Art Soiree with my partner Laurielle Noel, creating a gathering that has become a cornerstone of Baltimore’s vibrant creative community. The Soiree celebrates the city’s dynamic arts scene, fostering collaboration and cultural exchange among artists, industry insiders, and enthusiasts. It has grown exponentially in both impact and attendance, and the work we’ve done through the Soiree was recognized when Laurielle and I received proclamations from the Mayor’s Office, honoring our contributions to Baltimore’s cultural landscape. This acknowledgment speaks to the significance of my work not just as an artist but also as a community builder and cultural leader.
At the heart of everything I do lies a profound belief in the transformative power of art. Whether it’s a painting that challenges perceptions, a poem that stirs emotions, or a performance that inspires liberation, my work is always about connection. I see art as a conversation—one that transcends boundaries, opens hearts, and fosters understanding. My life’s work is about creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered. It’s this dedication that drives me every day, not just as an artist but as someone committed to making a lasting impact on the world.
VISUAL ART
My visual art practice is deeply rooted in the exploration of untold stories and unspoken emotions. My journey as a professional artist began after a life-altering car accident in my early 20s, an event that caused me to abandon an MBA program and fully commit to my passion for art. For many years, I toured the world as a poet and performer, but in 2009, I expanded my artistic expression to include painting, transforming my literary talent into a visual language.
From 2009 to 2020, I created hundreds of paintings, primarily using acrylic paint on canvas. During the pandemic in 2020, when performing was no longer possible, I was prepared to step fully into the art world, having spent the previous four years (2016-2019) creating a series of 125 paintings titled The Maroons: Rebellion. This body of work explores themes of resistance, resilience, and freedom, with select pieces featured in my first solo exhibition at the State University of New York (SUNY) Oneonta in 2022.
Over the years, I’ve developed three unique methodologies: NeoChaos, Raktism, and String Theory. Preferring to paint on large canvases—my longest piece to date spans 276 inches—I use NeoChaos to create expressive gestures, lines, and vibrant swathes of color, adding a distinct voice to the abstract expressionist canon. Raktism allows me to delve into the fourth dimension, experimenting with boundaries, echoes, and time on a 2D canvas. Inspired by the scientific framework, String Theory employs sweeping, curving motions with paint, often requiring full-body movement, adding dynamic energy to my works.
In 2024, I was honored to receive the JJC Residency, a collaborative program with the Joshua Johnson Council (JJC), Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA), and Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA).
My newest series, A Magnetic Cluster of Suns, exemplifies my emerging methodology, Thirdism. Building upon NeoChaos, Raktism, and String Theory, Thirdism represents my continued exploration of abstract expression and an evolving visual language. This direction concentrates on beauty and connection, bringing together all facets of my methodologies to reflect a deeper understanding of self, humanity, and the unknown. With Thirdism, I aim to push the boundaries of abstraction further, inviting viewers into a space of introspection, wonder, and shared experience.
*click an image below for larger view
CURRENT COLLECTIONS
A MAGNETIC CLUSTER OF SUNS
Solo Exhibition at Hotel Indigo, Baltimore MD (November 2024)
A Magnetic Cluster of Suns is a meditative journey into the realms of abstraction, where beauty is not merely seen but felt. By marshaling the visceral and spiritual forces of his creative practice, Burrows blurs the lines between chaos and order, memory and myth, human and cosmic. This series reaffirms his standing as a storyteller in abstraction, translating poetic musings into vivid, visual universes that pull the viewer into their magnetic orbit.
*click an image below for larger view
THE THIRD FUTURE: A SELF-PORTRAIT
Solo Exhibition at World Trade Center, Baltimore MD (September 2024)
The Third Future: A Self-Portrait delivers the essence of a man through a philosophical lens turned inward. The body of work created for this exhibition gives representation and visual language to a modern way of rendering self-portraiture. The Third Future fuses different aspects of Burrows’ storytelling journey from prose to lyrics to performance to painting. Working primarily in acrylic paint, the saturated tones and textured surfaces draw the eye and fuel the imagination while the scale of the pieces opens the pathway to an abstract experience that is immediate, personal, and transports the viewer.
This exhibition shows we are more than our hair, eyes, lips, skin, and limbs. This is a new self-portrait. Influenced by literature and themes of Afrofuturism, magical realism, and immigration, and the tumultuous path to belonging. His paintings emerge from layer upon layer until he achieves his perfect final composition from an alchemic process where images are deconstructed and reimagined.
*click an image below for larger view
“The way Ainsley uses paint is brave and matches his subject matter. Ainsley’s technique requires that he uses his whole body when creating work, so his strokes are grand and full of fevered movement. His use of color is bold and unapologetic, and the placement of the color and his color choices are intuitive; it’s almost like the work is telling him exactly what it needs. This series is yelling to the viewer to pay attention, to see more.”
— Naudline Pierre, Artist
SELECT COLLECTORS
Hill Harper, private collection – Detroit, MI
Jeffrey Wright, private collection – Brooklyn, NY
Wayee Chu, private collection – San Francisco, CA
Lisane Basquiat, private collection – San Diego, CA
Jeanine and Herve Heriveaux, private collection – Maplewood, NJ
Raymond McGuire, private collection – New York, NY
Tristan Jass, private collection – Kenosha, WI
Anthony Spikes, private collection – Denver, CO
Capital One Collection
*National Museum of African American History and Culture (Smithsonian Institution); on hold for possible acquisition
WRITING & MUSIC
Over a span of 20 years, Ainsley Burrows has produced the following writings and poetry albums:
~ Fifteen poetry albums including Climax, Rockstar and Evolver. Note: these albums are fully arranged and produced by Ainsley Burrows.
~ Three novels including the published novels Bang Bang Bang and Sex Addiction
~ Ten books of poetry including The Woman Who Isn’t Was. These were later combined with other poems to publish an anthology of his poetry over 20 years; a 500-page collection called The Spellcaster’s Manual (cover photo by photographer Barron Claiborne).
~ Ainsley Burrows’ work has been anthologized in several books including Planet Slam, Fourteen Two, and Graphic Poetry.
“Burrows is what James Baldwin paved the way for. He is moving, romantic and unapologetically black. Each page invites you to fall more deeply in love with language.”
— Natalie Patterson, Poet
Spellcaster's Manual
PERFORMANCE ART ~ POETRY
In 1999, I published my first poetry book, Black Angels with Sky-blue Feathers, and released my first poetry album, Cataclysm, under my newly founded publishing imprint, BurrowsINK. Combining my literary and artistic skills, I embarked on a “guerilla” tour called Babylon by Foot, traveling across the United States and Europe. Those early days, performing in cafés and open mics, laid the foundation for a career that would carry me to festivals and institutions across the US, Canada, and Europe over the next ten years.
I’ve been fortunate to grace stages at some of the most renowned venues in the world, including Manhattan Center, Cambridge University, the Dylan Thomas Center in Wales, the Frankfurt Book Fair, the Lancaster Literature Festival, the ABC Festival in Augsburg, Germany (celebrating the works of Bertolt Brecht), and Princeton University. Along the way, I’ve received numerous honors, including Best International Performer of 2001 and 2002 from London’s Farrago Poetry Café, Munich’s International Poetry Slam Championship in 2001, and awards from the iconic Nuyorican Poet’s Café in 2001 and 2004 for my contributions as a performer and coach to their national team.
Teaching has been another integral part of my journey. Over the years, I’ve led writing workshops in England, Wales, and Germany, and had the privilege of teaching a workshop for actors at Juilliard and lecturing on performance at Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). Sharing my experience with others has been as rewarding as performing, and I’ve always felt a deep sense of purpose in helping others find their voice and refine their craft.
Commercially, I’ve had the opportunity to align my artistry with major brands. In 2001, I was sponsored by Echo Unlimited, and in 2008, Guinness featured me in one of their award-winning commercials. That collaboration extended beyond the screen, as I became the face of Guinness in the Caribbean for three years. I also appeared on BET’s The Lyric Café in 2008 and on TV One’s Verses & Flow in 2013.
Looking back, I’m proud of the journey that started with a self-published book and a DIY tour. Every performance, every workshop, and every connection has been a step toward building something greater—a legacy rooted in creativity and courage.
THE SWEET SPOT
Founded by Ainsley Burrows in 2006 and produced by Laurielle Noel and Burrows, The Sweet Spot is a modern burlesque production fusing poetry, comedy, dance, and music into a bold celebration of sensuality, creativity, and connection. Touring year-round until 2020 and then part-time thereafter, the show has reached over 40 cities—including New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago, and Baltimore—drawing audiences of 200 to 1,200 per performance. Staging more than 75 shows annually, with 85% selling out and 99% of tickets purchased in advance, The Sweet Spot evolved into a cultural phenomenon that offers electrifying performances within a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.
Audiences frequently describe the show as “sexy, provocative, and fun,” with many attendees returning year after year. Testimonials highlight its unique ability to blend entertainment and empowerment. One attendee reflected on how the show’s energy made them feel "sexy and liberated," even without alcohol, while another described it as “the most exciting night out” that brought their entire group closer together. The Sweet Spot also facilitates personal milestones, with couples meeting for the first time at the show, friends celebrating major life events, and individuals finding a renewed sense of confidence and connection. “The Sweet Spot sparked something inside of everyone there,” one guest remarked, “I will not miss this show anytime it’s in my city.”
The Sweet Spot gained national attention as the biggest Black burlesque show in the country, performing to audiences ranging from 200 to 1200 and on notable stages like Sony Hall (Broadway, NYC), Howard Theater (DC), Harlem Stage (NYC), Warehouse Live (Houston), The Underground @ Fillmore (Charlotte), and the House of Blues (New Orleans).
ART SOIREE
The Art Soiree is more than an event—it’s a celebration of Baltimore’s creative spirit and a platform for connection that draws art industry insiders, art enthusiasts and artists at every stage of their careers. Held monthly, the Soiree has become a cornerstone of the city’s arts community and was recently recognized with proclamations from the Mayor’s Office for its cultural impact. What began as a small gathering in our live/work space (Studio 27) on July 14, 2022, has grown into a vibrant initiative that fosters collaboration and innovation, bringing over 400 people together at its most recent event.
When hosted at its home base, Studio 27, the Soiree transforms two floors into an immersive artistic experience where the entertainment is never the same. Guests may be treated to an immersive fashion show featuring local designers, a live photo shoot, a jazz band, music on both floors, and 20 minutes of live performances surrounded by visual and sculptural art. With food and refreshments sponsored by local alcohol brands and Black-owned businesses, the atmosphere is festive and alluring, creating a space where guests feel inspired to unwind and engage freely. The relaxed, yet lively setting allows everyone to share their best selves, and it’s not uncommon for attendees to make important professional connections and form lasting friendships.
The Soiree’s inclusivity is key to its success—it remains free so that artists at any level of their careers can "be in the room." We are able to secure sponsors and grants to cover some of the costs, ensuring accessibility while maintaining a high-quality experience. By bringing together a diverse mix of creatives and supporters in such an inviting and dynamic environment, the Art Soiree has become a powerful incubator for ideas, collaborations, and opportunities.
Whether it’s the collector discovering their next acquisition, a curator connecting with a promising new artist, or creatives finding camaraderie among peers, the Soiree is where connections are made, and inspiration flows. It’s deeply personal for me and my partner Laurielle, reflecting our commitment to creating spaces that uplift the arts, foster collaboration, and fuel Baltimore’s cultural growth. With every event, the Art Soiree continues to expand its reach, impact, and legacy as a vital force in the city’s creative community.
"THE FUTURE"
What's next?
As I continue to expand my visual art practice, write more books and remain active in several ventures; Laurielle and I have started plans to fulfill a shared dream that we discussed when we first met fourteen years ago. Our dream is called "The Future."
The Future will be a transformative multi-use space and the ultimate “go-to” destination for artists, art enthusiasts, and cultural aficionados seeking community, connection, and opportunity. Anchored by a vibrant club lounge as its central hub, The Future will foster creativity and collaboration while offering an elegant yet welcoming environment. Inspired by the ethos of the Art Soiree and the cultural impact of The Sweet Spot, The Future will bring together the energy of live events, the intimacy of artistic gatherings, and the vibrancy of cultural dialogue. Launching first in Baltimore, a city celebrated for its thriving arts scene, The Future will serve as a model for expansion into other creative hubs across the country. Its performance venue and art gallery will complement the lounge, providing an immersive environment for networking, inspiration, and growth.
Inspired by the model of membership clubs like Soho House, The Future will break barriers by replacing exclusivity based on financial means with a merit-based system. Access to events and membership status will be determined by active participation and engagement—measured by the number of times patrons enter and engage with the space—ensuring inclusivity and creating a community built on shared passion and contribution. By rewarding involvement rather than wealth, The Future will attract a dynamic and diverse group of individuals committed to the arts and cultural dialogue.
At its heart, The Future’s club lounge will operate seven days a week, offering curated draft cocktails, a limited yet bold culinary menu, and a sophisticated atmosphere that encourages connection. Regular programming will include curated art exhibitions, intimate performances, and collaborative workshops, all designed to make The Future an indispensable part of the city’s cultural fabric. These activities will elevate the space beyond a typical lounge, creating an inspiring hub where creativity and opportunity intersect.
Revenue streams will include food and beverage sales, ticketed events, private rentals, and art exhibitions, ensuring a sustainable business model. The Future’s expansion into other cities will replicate its success while adapting to the cultural identity of each location, building a national network of spaces where creativity and connection thrive. By positioning itself as the “go-to” space for artists and cultural leaders, The Future will establish itself as a movement, transforming how we think about art, community, and inclusion.
The Future will redefine what it means to belong, offering transformative experiences for everyone who steps through its doors, while shaping the future of art and culture one city at a time.