Gestures of Refusal – Black photography and Visual Culture
Gestures of Refusal: Black Photography and Visual Culture is a groundbreaking exhibition currently taking place at the Contemporary Arts Center in New Orleans. Curated by Shana M. Griffin, this exhibition is a tribute to the vibrant community of Black photographers and visual artists in New Orleans.
Presented in collaboration with SEEING BLACK, Gestures of Refusal showcases the power of the camera in capturing and celebrating moments of Blackness. It brings attention to the diverse range of contemporary Black photographers and visual artists who use their creative practices to challenge erasure and redefine visual culture.
In New Orleans, a city known for its rich artistic heritage, Black artists have long been an integral part of the cultural landscape. Gestures of Refusal pays homage to these artists and their contributions to the city’s artistic community.
Featuring the work of both established and emerging Black photographers, the exhibition offers a comprehensive view of Black visual culture in New Orleans. From street photography to portraiture, the photographs on display capture the essence of Black life in the city.
The exhibition also highlights the resilience and creativity of Black artists in New Orleans. Despite facing systemic barriers and challenges, these artists continue to create powerful and thought-provoking work that challenges stereotypes and celebrates Black identity.
Gestures of Refusal is more than just an art exhibition; it is a celebration of Black creativity and resistance. Through their work, the artists featured in the exhibition assert their presence and demand to be seen and heard in a society that often seeks to silence them.
For anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Black visual culture in New Orleans, Gestures of Refusal is a must-see event. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the diverse perspectives and artistic visions of Black photographers and visual artists in one place.