Unity with Color - Pride Art Show

In honor of Pride month, this Unity with Color brought together artists from our Y community to bring to life the story of the rainbow. The Pride Flag was created in 1978 after activist Harvey Milk asked artist Gilbert Baker to design a symbol for the LGBTQ+ community. Originally made with eight colors, the flag was later simplified to six, which remains the most recognized version today. Each color carries meaning: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for serenity, and purple for spirit.

Each color in the rainbow is unique, just like every piece displayed. They came from different artists, shaped by different experiences and backgrounds, using different artistic mediums. But together, they formed something more powerful than any single piece alone. That is what community is all about.

Dylan Korn, The Rainbow Collection, 2015 - Present

Photographed with a Canon 7D Mark II and 24–75mm lens, printed on styrofoam board

“The Rainbow Collection” is a photography collection that explores the use of the vibrant colors of the rainbow as they appear in the world—without capturing a single rainbow. From the bright lights of carnival rides to the imagination of street artists, each photograph reveals how the human world has embraced the colors of the rainbow and draws from its color palette in unexpected places. This collection celebrates one of the world’s most captivating and adored phenomenon and how we can find joy through the colors of the rainbow anywhere.

“Specifically, in the month of June, when we use the colors of the rainbow to show pride, I always think back to what the colors of the original pride flag stood for. Red = Life, Orange = Healing, Yellow = Sunlight, Green = Nature, Blue = Harmony & Purple = Spirit. These meanings evoke these emotions regardless the use of them in a flag, or seeing them in the sky, or spray painted on a wall. The rainbow has always and will always bring joy and a smile to someone’s face. “ - Dylan Korn

Delaney Sampson, Untitled, 2025

Charcoal on canvas

A surreal forest of human-faced trees, each trunk carved with distinct identities, symbolizing the individuality and presence of people. The faces blend seamlessly into the bark, suggesting that our essence, personalities, experiences, and voices are embedded in the strong, upright forms we present to the world. Like trees, these figures stand tall, unapologetic in their boldness, unafraid of taking up space.

The intricate root system connects the trees underground, symbolizing the unseen but vital bonds that link us all. These roots speak of shared humanity, interdependence, and emotional connectivity.

Despite the uniqueness of each figure, there is a quiet unity. The trees are individuals, yet part of one living, breathing organism. It’s a visual testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the power of grounded connection.

Norma Foege, Pandemic

Acrylic paint on canvas

“Pandemic” references the troubles in our world, particularly the 2020 pandemic and its aftermath. Although the painting has feelings of stress, the colors of red, yellow, black, and blue refer to a hopeful outcome.

Norma Foege, Sunnyside Up

Acrylic paint on canvas

In “Sunnyside Up,” the Shasta daisies turn their flowers to the sun. They symbolize the hope for a better world where we can have more harmony, tolerance, and peace.

Alani Yu, Waffles, 2025

Digital illustration

This stylized selfie shows two friends, Iris on the left and Rafale on the right, enjoying waffles together. The image captures a casual moment between queer friends. Iris is depicted in the colors of the bisexual flag, while Rafale is shown in the palette of the aroace flag.

Dave Graves, Paintings by Dave, 2023-Present

Acrylic paint on canvas board

At the Y, we provide spaces where people can authentically be themselves. This does not come from being alike, but from recognizing and appreciating each other for who we are. When people feel seen for who they are, it builds a sense of belonging that ultimately makes our community stronger.

With our range of engaging programs and a welcoming atmosphere, the Y brings together people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. For more information about how to become a member of our Y community, please visit greenwichymca.org/join.