EXHIBITION STATEMENT

“Welcome to our world – a world filled with culture and taste, hopes and hard work, trials, tragedies, and triumphs.”

Our World features ten young, emerging Black American artists working in Baltimore, MD. Co-curated by world-renowned artist Derrick Adams and curator Thomas James, Our World displays the many different facets that encompass Blackness in the eyes of these artists. Much like a tour, this exhibition takes the viewer on a reflective journey that is both didactic and visually dazzling. Working in an array of mediums, these artists have been able to capture the essence of Black American culture and its eclecticism.

The sculptures created by Murjoni Merriweather emphasize the importance placed on “Black hair,” or lack thereof, and how one’s identity can be formed, perceived, or affected by how they choose to style their hair. Perception is emphasized again through the installation work of Nikia Kigler. Her installation, stretching six-feet, and Book of Skin accentuate the topic of complexion within Black society; exploring how skin color can affect how one is regarded by others as well as how complexion affects individuals internally.

By placing a Black figure amongst off-kilter colored plants, Amani Lewis’ Imagine Dreams (Luis) brings normalcy to the idea of the Black body being allowed to simply exist within nature. In a similar relation to space, James Alpha Massaquoi gives meaning to, and shines light on, individuals that exist in spaces in which they may be considered invisible.

The four-piece installation of McKinley Wallace III’s work references policing, rebellion, self-protection, self-preservation, the influence of our government and other notable members of the same power structure, and the effect in-which this has on Black society. This power structure has a direct effect on many of our neighborhoods, much like the scene depicted in Will Watson’s Sippin’ on Apple Juice. Through his painting and collage work, Watson has captured the apparent duality of childlike glee and systematic realities within the Black experience.

The striking photography work of Akea Brionne Brown gives viewers an authentic image of resilience within the Black American lifecycle. By appreciating the strength of the Black woman, Brown has given us a glance into our past, present, and not-so-distant future. The work of Jerrell Gibbs also reminds us of our future and a world of opportunity, especially in the eyes of our youth. His work has provided us with a beautiful scene that provides a holistic resonation within our community.

The work of Kayla Fryer insists on embracing an honest state of being. The colors and drip techniques illustrate the frustration of allowing one’s self to be vulnerable and the need to embrace our emotions in a healthy way. The installation work of Charles Mason III also brings us back to our present state. His work constantly brings Blackness into question and what it means to be Black in any capacity. By adapting his work to any given physical space, he provides an environment that encourages the questioning that takes place within Black individuals, as well as others that are invested in Blackness in some way.

While viewing this exhibition please allow yourself to be transported into our world and all it encompasses.