YESTERDAYNITE

"Alim Smith is a Delaware born interdisciplinary artist whose work has been exhibited in American art galleries primarily on the east coast. His artistic process expands beyond a singular medium due to several years of applied studies in Visual Art, Communicative Arts as well as Photography. Smith’s creative exploration stems from experiences and events within his culture, applying a variety of ideas based on his knowledge of self and understanding of others."

Smith’s path into the art world was ignited by an early, fleeting love. In elementary school, inspired by a girl, he crafted a portfolio with works ranging from a self-portrait to a Garfield painting, earning him a place at Cab Calloway School of the Arts in Wilmington.

At Cab Calloway, Smith’s passion for art blossomed. Along the way, he found kindred spirits in Mike Silva and Terrance Vann, with whom he founded the Paper Cut Kids art collective.

An encounter with M.C. Escher’s intricate works left a lasting mark on Smith. He was so captivated by the artist's book that he 'borrowed' it from a teacher.

High school graduation in 2008 brought challenges: Smith was diagnosed with epilepsy, and his mother lost her job, halting his art school plans. But he persisted, creating art from his living room. Together with Silva, he drew a portrait of Barack Obama and, realizing its resonance, sold copies at the inaugural address in D.C.

Smith's art vibrantly celebrates black culture, women, and entertainment. 'Yesterday Nite,' with its playful misspelling, embodies his ethos: 'It’s wrong, but it feels good.' His work stands out for its rhythmic subjects, dark humor, and bold cultural influence, delivering his message with clarity.

'I want you to get what I’m trying to say when I say it,' Smith says. 

Alim Smith

29 west 37th street

Wilmington, Delaware , 19802

Yesterdaynite@gmail.com

302-507-9027

03/3/25

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing this letter in support of my close friend, Thomas Revelle, whom I have known for over 20 years. As a professional and world-renowned artist, my work has been featured in Time Magazine, and I have collaborated with FX, Instagram, Fanta, and Complex. I have exhibited internationally, including alongside Picasso in Paris. Despite my success, my foundation has always been built on the relationships I’ve nurtured, and Thomas—whom I met in middle school at Cab Calloway School of the Arts—is one of the most creative and responsible individuals I have ever known.

Thomas has always conducted himself with integrity, creativity, and kindness. He is not someone who seeks trouble, nor is he reckless in his actions. I was the one who picked him up from the police station on the night of this incident, and while I understand the seriousness of a DUI charge, I can say with confidence that this situation does not define him.

Thomas was one of the first Black men I knew to graduate college, and after earning his degree, he went on to work at the Pentagon—a mind-blowing achievement to me at the time, but not surprising given his intelligence and work ethic. His drive and ambition have always been unmatched, and he has continued to push himself toward success in every area of his life.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Thomas has been deeply committed to his community. For several years, he has volunteered as a referee and official for youth sports, providing mentorship and guidance to young athletes. I’ve personally witnessed the positive influence he has on young people, teaching them not just the rules of the game but also discipline, teamwork, and respect. He has always been devoted to his family, consistently traveling between Delaware and Virginia to be with them and maintain the strong family unit that has shaped him into the man he is today.

Thomas’s discipline extends beyond his career and family—he has also applied it to his health and well-being in a way that has inspired me. In middle school and high school, Thomas suffered from severe eczema, a condition that at times seemed debilitating. He was one of the first people I knew to introduce me to alternative medicine and the effects of eating healthy. I watched him go from struggling with a crippling skin disease to looking like he never had a blemish—entirely through sheer discipline and lifestyle changes. Thomas isn’t someone controlled by substances; in fact, he takes his diet very seriously and has always been mindful of what he puts into his body.

On top of all his achievements, Thomas is one of the first people I met who played multiple instruments and was in the marching band throughout middle and high school. His love for music never faded. As an adult, he carried that same passion into DJing, performing at huge music festivals like Broccoli City Fest in Washington, D.C., while simultaneously working at the Pentagon. His ability to balance his professional responsibilities with his creative pursuits is a testament to his discipline and dedication.

The night of this incident, Thomas was actually leaving a DJ set, heading home from work. This was not the result of reckless behavior or someone who has a history of making irresponsible decisions—this was a misjudgment in a moment that does not define the man he is.

From the time we were kids at Cab Calloway to now, I’ve watched Thomas grow into a dedicated professional and community figure, always striving to do the right thing. I’ve lived long enough and seen enough in life to distinguish between those who act with responsibility and those who do not. Having grown up in a city where I witnessed both the best and worst in people—including having a brother who battled addiction—I know what true character looks like. Thomas has always been one of the most responsible Black men I know. He is hardworking, dependable, and someone who handles his business with care and professionalism.

I have spoken with Thomas about this incident, and he fully understands its seriousness. He is committed to ensuring it never happens again and has already begun taking steps to be more mindful in his decisions moving forward. Thomas is a mentor, a role model, and a creative force. A conviction would not only set him back but would also take away from the many people he continues to inspire.

A conviction would have a devastating impact on Thomas’s life, potentially causing him to lose his job and setting back all the progress he has worked so hard to achieve. It would make finding future employment more difficult and financially stunt him, forcing him to start over at a time when he has been building a strong and stable foundation.

I ask that you take Thomas’s longstanding record of responsibility, community service, and dedication to his family into consideration when evaluating this case. If you need any further information, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

Alim Smith