Where We Stand: Black Artists in Southwest Michigan

Supporting artists is part of the KIA mission, as evidenced by our annual juried exhibitions and Kirk Newman Art School’s post-baccalaureate residency program. Where We Stand: Black Artists in Southwest Michigan is an exhibition that focuses on the diverse creativity in a selection of Black artists working right here in West Michigan. This unique exhibition offers our audiences an opportunity to explore the breadth of talent that contributes to the cultural richness of our region.

The exhibition features ten Michigan artists working in sculpture, photography, painting, ceramics, and printmaking. They are emerging artists and veterans in their field who address issues as diverse as the environment, mass incarceration, the criminal justice system, and concepts of beauty.

The exhibition is being curated by Denise Liseicki, Director of the Kirk Newman Art School, and Fari Nzinga, Curatorial Fellow at the KIA and Kalamazoo College. The exhibition continues through December 8, 2019.

This exhibition is supported by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the Michigan Humanities Council.

*Free Community Day Opening Saturday, September 14, 11-5 pm, will celebrate the exhibition with family activities from 11 am-3 pm include three of the exhibiting artists exploring and creating art with visitors: Brent Harris, James Palmore and Al Harris. Photographer, actress, and poet Tanisha Pyron will perform an extended spoken word piece several times during the afternoon.

*Thursday, November 14, the KIA will host a 5:30 reception and 6:30 screening of the premiere of a documentary about the artists in Where We Stand, produced by Maya Wanner. The artists and filmmaker will be on hand for a Q&A after the film. Reception organized by the Black Arts and Cultural Center.

*In support of Where We Stand, the Kalamazoo Public Library will host an “Artists in Action” program at its branches throughout the Fall. Five of the exhibiting artists will be in residence at one of the KPL branches, making art, engaging with the public, and hosting an evening program.