We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Richard E. Pelzer Ii a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Richard E. , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
The Story Behind HarlemCLX: Amplifying Voices, Catalyzing Growth
Greetings, esteemed audience. I stand before you today not merely as a visionary leader but as a storyteller, a chronicler of the HarlemCLX journey, a tale woven with threads of passion, purpose, and unwavering dedication to our community.
Our mission at HarlemCLX is not merely to celebrate the rich tapestry of Harlem’s culture but to actively amplify its voices, catalyze its growth, and empower its creative spirit. We believe that art is not merely a form of expression but a catalyst for change, a force that can unite, inspire, and heal.
Our story begins amidst the vibrant energy of Harlem, a neighborhood steeped in history, a cradle of culture, and a beacon of resilience. We saw a community brimming with talent, creativity, and a thirst for opportunity. Yet, we also witnessed the challenges faced by artists and entrepreneurs, the barriers that hindered their voices from being heard.
Determined to make a difference, we set out to create a platform that would empower these individuals, provide them with the resources and support they needed to thrive, and showcase their unique contributions to the world. HarlemCLX was born, a digital hub where creativity could flourish, ideas could be exchanged, and collaboration could be fostered.
We envisioned a space where artists could connect with patrons, entrepreneurs could find funding and mentorship, and the community could come together to celebrate its shared heritage. We sought to bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds, leveraging the power of technology to amplify the voices of Harlem’s creatives and showcase their work to a global audience.
Our journey has been filled with triumphs and challenges, but our unwavering commitment to our mission has kept us moving forward. We have organized countless events, workshops, and exhibitions, providing a platform for emerging artists and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents. We have partnered with leading institutions and organizations to amplify our reach and impact. We have witnessed the transformative power of art as it has brought communities together, fostered dialogue, and inspired hope.
Today, HarlemCLX stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the transformative potential of art. We are proud to be a catalyst for change, a beacon of hope for the creative community, and a celebration of Harlem’s rich cultural heritage.
Our story is far from over. We continue to evolve, adapt, and innovate, always seeking new ways to empower our community and amplify their voices. We invite you to join us on this journey, to be a part of our story, and to help us create a brighter future for Harlem and its creative spirit.
Together, let us amplify the voices of Harlem, catalyze its growth, and celebrate the power of art to transform lives and communities.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m Richard E. Pelzer II, and I wear many hats in the vibrant world of Harlem’s creative scene. I’m the Managing Partner and Executive Producer of HarlemCLX, Interim General Manager of the Harlem Fine Arts Show, and an Advisory Board Member for NYCxDesign Festival. Essentially, I’m a champion for artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs in Harlem.
My journey started over three decades ago with a passion for arts, culture, and design. I earned a degree in Art History and Business Management from Kent State University, and that blend of creativity and business acumen has guided my career. I founded MEGA Personalities in 1994, a business development firm that’s allowed me to work with incredible clients like the NYSE Diversity Council, Sephora, Essence Magazine, The Apollo Theater, and many more.
With HarlemCLX, I wanted to create something truly special for my community. We’re a platform that amplifies voices, catalyzes growth, and empowers creatives. We do this through events like the Harlem Fine Arts Show, which has become a renowned showcase for artists of color, and initiatives like Design & Cultural Harlem Sunday during NYCxDesign Festival, which highlights the incredible design talent in our neighborhood.
What sets us apart is our deep-rooted connection to Harlem and our commitment to community engagement. We’re not just about showcasing art; we’re about fostering long-term growth and impact. We connect artists with opportunities, entrepreneurs with resources, and the community with experiences that celebrate our rich cultural heritage.
I’m incredibly proud of the success of the Harlem Fine Arts Show, especially its 15th-anniversary celebration at the Glasshouse. That move solidified its position as a major cultural event in New York City. I’m also proud of the partnerships we’ve built with organizations like the 125th Street Business Improvement District, the Apollo Theater, and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture.
If there’s one thing I want people to know about HarlemCLX, it’s that we’re more than just a platform – we’re a movement. We’re about empowering individuals, strengthening our community, and celebrating the incredible creativity that thrives in Harlem. We invite everyone to be a part of this journey with us! #CommunityIsOurSuperPOWER
How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
I keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty by building genuine relationships and shared experiences. One of the most impactful ways we do this is through our #AttendWithUs campaign. This initiative goes beyond typical communication strategies; it’s about bringing our community together.
Here’s how it works:
Shared Experiences: We invite our group leaders, community partners, and clients to attend special events and programs with us. This could be anything from art exhibitions and design showcases to film screenings and cultural performances.
Immersive Experiences: We curate these experiences to be truly immersive, allowing our guests to connect with the art, the artists, and each other on a deeper level.
#BetterTogether: The core idea behind #AttendWithUs is that we’re #BetterTogether. By sharing these experiences, we strengthen our bonds, foster a sense of belonging, and build lasting relationships.
As an event and film producer, I understand the power of storytelling. #AttendWithUs allows us to amplify the stories of our community in a way that resonates with our clients. They become active participants in the narrative, not just passive observers.
This approach, combined with other methods like:
Regular Communication: Newsletters, social media updates, and personalized messages keep our audience informed and engaged.
Exclusive Events and Content: Curated experiences and exclusive content make our clients feel valued.
Personalized Service: We prioritize understanding and meeting the unique needs of each client.
Community Building: Online forums and networking events foster a strong sense of community.
All of this contributes to a loyal following that’s invested in our mission and supports our growth. By creating these shared experiences and fostering genuine connections, we build a strong foundation for long-term success.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Managing a team and keeping morale high is a constant balancing act, but it’s crucial for success. In my experience leading teams in Harlem’s creative scene, I’ve found that fostering a culture of appreciation is essential. This means regularly acknowledging contributions, both big and small, and celebrating achievements publicly. It’s about genuinely thanking people for their hard work and tailoring your approach to individuals, recognizing their unique strengths and motivations. Open communication is equally important. Being transparent about challenges and successes, actively listening to feedback, and providing constructive criticism builds trust and makes everyone feel included.
Empowering your team and/or community is another key ingredient. Give them ‘ownership’ of their work and the autonomy to make decisions. This demonstrates confidence in their abilities and fosters a sense of responsibility. Delegate effectively, assigning tasks that align with individual strengths and provide opportunities for growth. Prioritize team building and collaboration by organizing social events and creating a collaborative environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and working together. Invest in your team’s professional development by providing opportunities for training and mentorship. This shows your commitment to their growth and helps them feel valued.
Finally, remember the importance of work-life balance. Encourage healthy work habits, respect personal time, and offer flexibility whenever possible. Most importantly, lead by example. Maintain a positive attitude, act with integrity, and be fair and consistent in your actions. This builds trust and respect within the team. By focusing on these elements, you can create a motivated and high-performing team that thrives in a dynamic and creative environment like Harlem. Harlem is a state of mind…
Contact Info:
- Website: HFAS.org & HarlemCLX.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlemfinearts & https://www.instagram.com/harlemclx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarlemFineArts & https://www.instagram.com/harlemclx
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-e-pelzer-ii-9a48654
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@harlemfinearts & https://www.youtube.com/@harlemclx
Image Credits
Photos Courtesy of HarlemCLX