There is a power within acceptance of one’s self and others that allows for the empathy and open-mindedness necessary for safe spaces to develop and exist.

If You’re Here, You Belong is a collection of ideas and interests from 12 BIPOC artists, quilting together different cultural experiences into one communal, jubilant platform. The artwork on display explores lineage and the sort of existence currently manifesting itself as a result of that ancestry. The examination of cultural practices, geographic influences and family dynamics inform much of the energetic, vigorous artwork on display.

Moreover, living within the remnants of an inescapable colonial past and its repercussions not only shape how we each see the world, but how we see each other. This analysis of forced integration and/or rebellion against learned social norms is a common thread these artists share, resulting in interesting creations and quirks. 

Commonalities have the ability to create a sense of invitation and a yearning to participate in community. Being able to yield a sense of normalcy affords individuals the revolutionary privilege of inconsequentially existing. This leads to discovery and an uncovering of new stories that amplify more voices, providing context to current histories and progressing our world further. 

Curator’s Note:

Recently, “if you’re here, you belong” has become an affirmation - a combatant against imposter syndrome and a celebration of confidence. It also provides verbal reassurance and grace for those that may not feel as though they belong. As I learn what it means to build community, I find more and more that what a community needs is care, an effort to understand many different perspectives, the learned ability to take critical feedback, and acceptance that not everyone is going to want to be part of your community - and that is OK. But for those that want to be, it is important to nurture those relationships.

I approached this exhibition as if it were a curated dinner party - people of different backgrounds getting together in one room and exchanging thoughts and memories, while also  finding similarities and differences within each other’s experiences. At the end of the festivities we can each leave with new understandings and (hopefully) new community members.