On a crisp fall evening in Flatbush, Galerie Particulier filled with a unique warmth during our latest storytelling night, Because, Love. The theme—simple yet infinite—brought together a roomful of people eager to share what love means to them: love for friends and family, for partners and community, for self, and even for a thriving houseplant.

One of the evening’s most memorable moments came from Néfartare, who told a tender story about caring for a plant that became a metaphor for nurturing and patience. Others spoke of the delicate balance between love and trust, and of the deep healing that comes with self-acceptance.

The event took place amid our current exhibition, Body, Positivity, Gender, Euphoria, curated by activist and art collector Racquel Chevremont.

Surrounded by works that celebrate identity, transformation, and beauty in all forms, audience members were invited to share which piece resonated most with them—continuing our mission to make visual art a participatory experience.

In a time when the world feels increasingly divided, evenings like this remind us why love matters more than ever. Love for ourselves, especially when society tries to turn some of us into outsiders. Love for our communities, as a way of resisting cynicism and despair.

Choosing love—again and again—can be an act of determination, and one that connects directly to the art on our walls: each piece a celebration of visibility, self-acceptance, and joy. In fact Noah Bassman described his painting Water Tower as expressing specifically trans joy.

The night was guided by the incomparable Comrade Cav, whose warmth and humor as MC reminded everyone that love—especially in community—is both radical and necessary. The evening also featured a soulful performance by rising singer Ruby Joan, whose voice carried the spirit of tenderness and joy that defined the night.

Because, Love reaffirmed why we gather: to connect through art, to listen, and to be reminded that love—in all its shapes—is the thread that holds us together.