Essay 3/13

 The readings "This Is What I Know About Art" by Kimberly Drew and the essay "Towards Curatorial Activism" by Dr. Maura Reilly explore the theme of curatorial activism. These readings provide insights into change and rebellion. Not only do they help us understand change, but also touch upon issues like racism, sexism, and challenges faced during the process of change. The authors, historians, and curators can all become activists in their own way. Authors can rebel with their writing by telling stories that uncover truths and highlight important issues. Historians can teach history correctly to ensure that younger generations don't repeat the same mistakes. Curators can give voice to past protesters who are no longer alive to fight for what they believe in. In her book, Kimberly Drew discusses the inequality between women artists and museums, much like the Guerrilla Girls, who claimed that the only way women could get into museums was by being naked. Kimberly describes how unjust it felt that out of 103 artists, only 6 of them were black, and how defeated she felt by the lack of education she received on black artists. The moment that seemed most pivotal to me was when Kimberly realized that nobody around her cared about what was going on with police brutality and that people were moving on from it like nothing had happened. Many previous experiences shaped her into the activist she is, but this was the point where she realized that using her voice could be a decisive move. The moment that seemed the most pivotal to me was when Kimberly realized that nobody around her cared about what was going on with police brutality and that people were moving on from it as if nothing had happened. Many previous experiences shaped her to be an activist, but this was the point where she realized that using her voice could be such a powerful move

Many pieces captured our attention and had profound meaning throughout our journey through Ben Jones exhibition. With his paintings, Ben Jones celebrates his culture, women, and the technological advances humans have been able to accomplish. Here are some pieces that stood out in particular. 

Iconographic "Shango" women on fans.

In this creation, Ben Jones worships women who have made noticeable changes in music. Based on prior readings, many women were being neglected in the art industry or told that they wouldn't be able to do certain things. Most importantly, they were victims of patriarchy. Seeing how they're celebrated not just in the music world but also in the art world makes them so much more special.

The next piece that stood out for me was Shrine for the Spirit,

Ben mentioned that he created this piece to celebrate men when he presented. While reading his interview with Casey Mathern, Ben Jones talked about his first police aggression incident that occurred to him in the city. He would go on to continue having those types of encounters. However, Ben did not let that change how he thought or how he acted. " when damage is done to you, you cannot be the same, but you can be healed spiritually to live a better life if we're not going to be good human beings, what will we be? Ben Joes also dedicated his catalog to his Grandfather who went suffered much racism in the south but still had wisdom in his heart. This piece seems to be celebrating the good in man, and although patriarchy affects them as well men like ben joes and his father deserve to be celebrated