Khalif Tarik Thompson in his studio
Image courtesy of Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery

I first experienced Khalif Tarik Thompson's work in 2024, when Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery organized Chilly Winds Don't Blow, the artist's first solo exhibition in Paris.

It was my great pleasure to meet him last Friday at the opening of his new Paris show, Beautiful Land.

Beautiful Land at Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery
Image courtesy of Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery

Phyllis Hollis, creator of the Cerebral Women podcast, introduced me to him.

Khalif Tarik Thompson and Phyllis Hollis 
© Entrée to Black Paris

The room quickly filled with admiring art enthusiasts, and the bartender could barely keep up with the people requesting Saint-Germain spritzes or still water in an attempt to cope with the ~90°F heat.

Vernissage attendees 
© Entrée to Black Paris

I managed to view all the works on display before the gallery completely filled ...

Under the Brooklyn Bridge 2026
Khalif Tarik Thompson
Oil, acrylic, handmade paper, papyrus on canvas
Photo © Entrée to Black Paris

Thompson and attendees in front of Red Lady 2026
© Entrée to Black Paris

Woman admires Betty and Tulips 2026
© Entrée to Black Paris

... and decided that Sun Room 2026 was my favorite.

Sun Room 2026
Khalif Tarik Thompson
Oil, acrylic, handmade paper, papyrus on canvas
Photo © Entrée to Black Paris

On Saturday, Zidoun & Bossuyt hosted its first ever artist talk, with Phyllis Hollis interviewing Thompson about his artistic practice, the influence that Fauvism and Harlem Renaissance artists have on his practice, and his thoughts about whether / how his work disrupts inherited stereotypes.

 Thompson and Hollis prior to interview
© Entrée to Black Paris

Thompson and Hollis interview
© Entrée to Black Paris

People turned out in great numbers for this event.  It ended up being standing room only.

Attendees at the interview
Image courtesy of Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery

Standing room only
Image courtesy of Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery

After the interview, attendees were able to engage with Thompson and look at his works with new perspective.

Attendees after the interview
© Entrée to Black Paris

Beautiful Land will be on display through July 18, 2026.

Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery 
51, rue de Seine
75006 Paris
Metro: Mabillon (Line 10)
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 11 AM - 6 PM