I Was Here
Seventeen emerging and underrepresented lens-based artists working in the mediums of photography, video, performance, collage, and mixed media explore the concept of proclaiming one’s existence through image-making and storytelling. In our social landscape, the phrase “____ was here” is a familiar declaration found on walls and public surfaces, symbolizing an act of marking one’s time and presence in a place. Taking inspiration from renowned photographer Ming Smith, this exhibition evokes her perspective of “celebrating the struggle, the survival, and finding grace in it.” I Was Here celebrates Smith’s legacy while providing young artists the opportunity to present work inspired by her style.
Artists: Deijah Archie-Davis, Asa Featherstone IV, Janet George, Ira Graham, Terrence Hammonds, Iyana Hill, Asha Imani, Magnus Juliano, Lyn Logan-Grimes, Alexis McCrimmon, Ky Smiley, Marissa Nicole Stewart, Tariq Tarey, Akeylah Wellington, Nina Wells, Ben Willis
Curators: Marcus Morris and April Sunami, Independent Curators
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Ira Graham, Protest following the murder of Ma'Khia Bryant, 2021. Black and white photograph, 8 x 12 inches. Courtesy of the artist
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Marissa Stewart, It’s better to die on your feet, than to live on your knees, 2018. Black and white photograph, 12 x 12 inches. Courtesy of the artist
Venue Details
Columbus College of Art & Design: Beeler Gallery
60 Cleveland Ave
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 222-3270
Mon–Sat 10am–6pm
Free to the Public
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