Microaggressions Sound Like

Let me know what you think of this audio that will accompany future installation of Free Your Mind?

Microaggressions are defined as subtle, intentional — and oftentimes unintentional — everyday interactions or behaviors that communicate hostile, derogatory or negative racial messages or assumptions toward historically marginalized groups.
 
The difference between microaggressions and overt discrimination, is that people who commit microaggressions are often unaware they are doing these things – and if you point it out to them, they say, “That wasn’t my intention, you are being too sensitive.” Which is yet another microaggression.
 
I often have the experience of people touching my hair without asking first, which makes me feel like a merchandise on display and I cannot begin to tell you how many times I’ve been complimented for being “articulate.” Which presumes that black people are not usually capable of competent intellectual conversation.
 
The weight of these daily interactions underpins very real consequences… stress, anger, frustration, self-doubt and ultimately feelings of powerlessness and invisibility. 

Art Opening & Artist Talk This Week

Each One Teach One: Preserving the Legacy in Perpetuity 

A collaborative exhibition between

Art in the Atrium, Inc. (ATA) and the Morris Museum

Opening Reception:  March 16, 6:00-9:00pm

Exhibition Dates: March 17 – August 27, 2023

Location: The Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Heights Road Morristown, NJ

Artist Talk Thursday, March 16th

6-7 PM Exhibition Viewing & Light Reception

7-8 PM Panel Discussion “Lifting as you climb”

8-9 PM Exhibition Viewing

Mentor and mentee panel discussion featuring: Ben F. Jones, Mansa Mussa, Gannon Crutcher, Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Bryant Small, Dawn Stringer, Theda Sandiford, and Cheryl Riley, moderated by Morris Museum Curator Michelle Graves

For the artists featured in this exhibition, sharing their gifts with others is an inextricable part of their work and lives. Each One Teach One: Preserving Legacy in Perpetuity features the work of 36 artists who have taken part in the meaningful exchange of wisdom, ideas, process, career, culture, and more. The works of mentors are juxtaposed alongside the work of their mentees, highlighting the impact the relationship has had on both parties. The artists included in the exhibition speak to their experiences in their own words, translating what can be seen in the power of their art into a narrative that shines a light on the importance of the mentor/mentee relationship. Featuring sculptural works, paintings, fiber arts, collage, and more, this exhibition in partnership with Art in the Atrium, Inc. explores another dimension of Black art and artistry, emphasizing the importance of legacy, community, and the profound impact it has on the arts.

Bottle Cap Pearls, close up view

JC Friday: Rope Making Workshop Tonight

Learn to use old textiles or scrap fabric and turn it into rope.

The process is easy, slightly addictive, and most definitely meditative.

Materials provided

Date: JC Friday, March 3rd, 6:00-8:00pm

Location: Art 150, Studio #231, 150 Bay Street, Enter at Provost and 1st Street and ride the elevator to the second floor.

Make Fabric Rope with Me

Learn to use old textiles or scrap fabric and turn it into rope.

The process is easy, slightly addictive, and most definitely meditative.

Join me in making rope for an installation at Governors Island Summer 2023 about hair.

Materials provided

Date: JC Friday, March 3rd, 6:00-8:00pm

Location: Art 150, Studio #231, 150 Bay Street, Enter at Provost and 1st Street and ride the elevator to the second floor.