Studio Montclair is looking for artwork that encourages dialog about implicit bias and stereotypes and I am curating the show.
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.
“You are so articulate.” Presumes that black people are not usually capable of competent intellectual conversation.
“Who are you? Do you live here?” Asking someone to identify themself in their own garage, home, or car and prove they ‘belong’ sends a message they are not welcome.
“Can I touch your hair?” Or worse touching without even asking. Curiosity is ok but invading someone’s personal space is not. This can make someone feel like they are an animal on display.
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.
The weight of these daily interactions underpins very real consequences in marginalized groups… stress, anger, frustration, self-doubt, and ultimately feelings of powerlessness and invisibility.
We are looking for artwork that encourages dialog about implicit bias and stereotypes. Our hope is to make the invisible, visible as a path towards a more inclusive culture.
MPORTANT DATES
Exhibit Dates: January 15 – February 19, 2021
Entry Deadline: Monday, December 21, 2020
Notification Date: Tuesday, December 29, 2020Opening Reception: TBD
Delivery of Artwork by Hand: January 7 – 9, 2021
Delivery of Artwork by Shipping: Accepting work from January 5 – 9, 2021
Pickup of Unsold Artwork: February 20 -23, 2021
