In a bold and visionary collaboration, Nawab Restaurant and Blue Door Art Center have joined forces to ignite a cultural renaissance in the heart of Yonkers. Together, they are transforming traditional dining into a dynamic artistic experience—bringing contemporary art to the public through a free monthly exhibition series hosted inside Nawab’s stunning venue.
This isn’t just a partnership—it’s a movement.
Each month, the restaurant opens its doors not only to food lovers but to art enthusiasts, creatives, and community members. The initiative launched with works by acclaimed artist Librado Romero, whose legacy and presence culminated in an inspiring art workshop on June 21—a moment that set the tone for what this movement stands for: access, engagement, and cultural growth.
This month, the spotlight shifts to James Henry, a celebrated New York-based artist and creative designer known for his deeply layered, emotionally resonant abstractions. His work captures the fleeting nature of urban life—moments of stillness within chaos, memory amidst change—creating a profound visual language that speaks to the soul.
James Henry: Artist in Focus
James Henry brings not only a remarkable fine art portfolio but also a rich background in design. His past roles include Senior Designer at Sotheby’s and work with brands like FX, Universal Pictures, and MTV. Working with acrylics, pastels, collage, and screen print, James creates layered compositions that reflect on memory, movement, and place. His energetic use of color and intuitive mark-making evoke the textures of everyday environments, weathered surfaces, shifting light, and fading impressions. Rooted in abstraction, his work invites a sense of pause and stillness within the constant motion of city life.
Meet & Greet – July 19 | Nawab Restaurant | Yonkers, NY
Now, Yonkers has a chance to meet the artist himself at an exclusive Meet & Greet on July 19 between 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm right at Nawab Restaurant.
The Vision Behind the Movement: Mr. Mohammad Jan
At the center of this movement stands Mr. Mohammad Jan, CEO of Nawab Restaurant and The Grand Roosevelt Ballroom. A well-respected entrepreneur and passionate cultural advocate, Mr. Jan has long envisioned Yonkers as a hub of creativity and connection.
For over a decade, his venues have hosted weddings, galas, and community events—but this new initiative speaks to something deeper: a commitment to elevate art, inspire dialogue, and invest in the soul of the city.
“We believe art should be experienced—not behind a velvet rope, but over a shared meal, a conversation, a spark of curiosity,” says Mr. Jan. “This is about opening our doors to the city and saying: come in, be inspired, and be part of something bigger.”
A Living Gallery in the City’s Heart
Through this evolving partnership with Blue Door Art Center, Nawab Restaurant is not simply displaying art—it is cultivating a space for expression, a platform for artists, and a gift to the community.
Whether you come for the food, the art, or the connection—this is a place where cultures merge, creativity thrives, and Yonkers shines.
Visit Nawab Restaurant this July to experience the work of James Henry—and witness a movement that’s just getting started
