News

This week, we mourn the passing of Mr. Muhammad Z. Zaman, a dear friend, loving father, and massively talented visual artist. He will be so dearly missed by so many.

As we reflect on Muhammad's legacy and the many gifts that he left to our community, we are especially thankful for all that he gave to Open Buffalo over the years. Love to our friends at Buffalo Arts Studio for approaching us in 2018 about a partnership to sponsor him as an Emerging Artist. Since then, by his example, we've been moved … uplifted … called to work harder to love and build up Buffalo/WNY in the many ways it deserves. In addition to his years of service on our Board of Directors, Muhammad was always willing to show up for us -- as a volunteer, as a donor of stunning original works, and as a trusted member of our community family.

Muhammad's 2018 piece titled "Integration" (acrylic on canvas) has adorned the entrance of OB's classroom space for years, intriguing and inspiring, sparking rich dialogue.

When he transitioned this week, Muhammad left behind not just an lengthy catalogue of stunning creations -- on canvases, skateboard decks, crosswalks, buildings, and other surfaces --  but also two lovely children. Last year, Muhammad's friends and members of the Buffalo arts community started a gofundme fundraiser (link below) to support a trust created to benefit his kids and help cover medical expenses as he valiantly battled cancer. If it is within your means, please consider contributing to the fundraiser. If it's not, please consider helping to spread the word.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/benefit-for-muhammad-z-zaman-and-his-family