Throughout human existence, art has served as a unifying force and a wordless language to represent curiosities, communities and aspirations. Artistic spaces and practices, however, have not always been inclusive or accessible to all.
Dittmar Gallery curators Jasmine Ametovski and Clare Kirwan invited local artists to consider how the integration of their perspective into their artwork might redefine art spaces and reclaim art practices, identities and cultures with complex histories.
The 24 participating artists explore their art as a tool for navigating the world and shaping reality. By prioritizing their encounters with day-to-day-life, these artists sidestep traditional studio approaches to expand the definition of art.
"We are living in times where reclamation is essential to move forward as a community, keep each other safe and to create the world we want to live in," Ametovski said. "In times where it feels that we cannot rely on existing power structures to protect us, we need to resort to other methods and turn inwards towards ourselves and our community members. I'm inspired by the ways the artists in this show have used art as a message for transformation. By depicting their unique perspectives of themselves and the world, they are giving viewers a chance to see things in a new light and learn something new."
Exhibition co-curator Kirwan said the mediums the artists work in are as varied as their backgrounds.
"As an art history major from a small rural town in Virginia, I've seen firsthand how exclusive gallery and museum spaces can feel," said Kirwan. "'I was here' brings together artists from all kinds of backgrounds, showing a wide mix of experiences, cultures and styles. From photos of the Berlin Wall to video and sound pieces to works made of beeswax, I've really enjoyed seeing all the different ways artists have interpreted the theme."
"I was here" will be on view at Dittmar Gallery Thursday, April 9 through Sunday, May 3. The gallery will host a public reception with the artists from 6 to 8 p.m. on April 9.
