We Are One Exhibition Statement
EXHIBITION STATEMENT
EXHIBITION STATEMENT
“We are not all the same, but we share a oneness.”
This quote from exhibiting artist Ernest Shaw is the backbone of this exhibition, We Are One, which serves as a cross-generational conversation between Black artists working in Baltimore, exploring the complexity of these artists, their interests, passions, and what is currently driving their current practices.
Like sitting down together at a family dinner, in this exhibition different generations come together in a safe space to allow each other’s voices and points of view to be heard and appreciated. The opinions of the Generation Z, Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers must be taken seriously in order to support one another and move forward together.
As someone who has lived through Jim Crow segregation in America, Jerry Prettyman’s work focuses on aspects within Black society he believes should receive immense attention during these current times. These include being knowledgeable of our true history as Black Americans and valuing the women in our community.
Being an experienced Baltimore City educator, much of Ernest Shaw’s most recent work relates to his thorough knowledge and expertise related to the development of young Black men growing up in this world of global white supremacy. Shaw has also been exploring and dismantling his former ignorance, as it relates to Black women’s pain and suffering, specifically the epidemic of sexual assault and abuse many Black women and girls have faced at the hands of known perpetrators. His work investigates the strength that arises from the expectation that these women can easily reintegrate with their given family dynamic.
Latoya Hobbs’ work explores the intersection of race, beauty, and identity concerning women of African descent. Her use of printmaking within her paintings brings a more literal interpretation of her belief that in order to express and embrace their true selves, Black women have had to cut away at the negative stereotypes and preconceived notions imposed upon them by external forces.
Monica Ikegwu’s artwork focuses on individuals and how they want the outside world to view them.
From their attitude to their fashion, she concentrates on capturing
the aspects of self that Black subjects are most comfortable revealing. During these days of calculated and carefully curated social media accounts, this subject matter is more relevant than ever.
The puppets and garments created by Mark Fleuridor spotlight personal narratives surrounding his upbringing and exploration of his Haitian heritage. These puppets showcase Fleuridor’s memories of growing up with his siblings and the relationship they held with their mother.
Although each of these artists are working in similar realms of Black portraiture and figurative work, each practice is very different. The mediums accentuate different interpretations and interests of these Black artists while keeping the essence of what it means to be connected through Blackness.
