Perry Williams is an 18-year-old, gay, African-American artist who discovers the hidden legacies of gay and lesbian subcultures within the Harlem Renaissance, while working and studying in New York. Art world success is knocking at his door, but Perry is afraid of "selling out" to a white privileged world. At the same time, community and family support is elusive as he endures homophobic remarks from his black classmates, rejection by his father, and a disappointing relationship with his new, handsome white lover. However, Perry learns that his struggle is not new--and what is most important is a strong self-image to nurture his artistic spirit.