During ArtPrize 9, one of its best on record in my opinion, the topic of culture appropriation as it relates to race took center stage at a variety of venues or within the various works presented therein.
And while the topic does not always have clear lines to those artists creating the works, there are moments within the public where those lines are clearly crossed.
On Tuesday, Feb. 27, cultured.GR, the Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives (GRAAMA), and Fountain Street Church invite artists and art fans to join them for a free, special double feature event with a panel discussion on “
Who Tells the Story: Unpacking the conversations around art and race” and a closing reception for the Keeler Gallery’s exhibition, "African American Artists Tell the Story.”
The night’s panel will include 2017 ArtPrize artists Monroe O'Bryant, Ericka Thompson (Kyd Kane), and Sofía Ramirez-Hernandez, with Steffanie Rosalez moderating.
As outlined by the event’s organizers, “this panel discussion is designed to address these questions and move towards action that is more intentional, respectful, and honoring of people of color.”
I know it will be a fascinating night and one that I hope will spill over into the community and not be ensconced in the choir loft…er, the metaphorical choir loft.