PHILADELPHIA, PA — In a powerful exploration of Black identity, Philadelphia’s InLiquid Gallery is set to host an art exhibition titled ‘Dolls, Idols, and Ideals‘. The exhibition features the work of Kimberly Camp and Emilio Maldonado, two artists who delve into their personal and shared experiences of Black identity, influenced by lineage, history, myth, and magic. The show will run from February 29 to April 20, 2024, at the InLiquid Gallery situated in the Crane Arts Building in South Kensington.
Both Camp and Maldonado draw inspiration from global cultures that have historically been subjected to colonialism and white supremacy. They adapt the symbols, rituals, and meanings of these cultures to define their own identities and the broader experience of Blackness within the African Diaspora. By embracing and celebrating their cultural heritages, the artists find strength and power.
The exhibition will showcase 15 unique handmade dolls by Camp, reflecting her Geechee ancestry, the history of Black culture in the United States, studies of African Diasporic history, and her own family history.
Maldonado’s contributions to the show include sculptural installations influenced by traditional Dominican Republic architecture. He also presents clothing assembled from found objects that represent attire worn during Dominican Gagá rituals by his family members. In a unique twist, Oyewumi Oyeniyi, Philadelphia’s current Youth Poet Laureate, will contribute a poem instead of a traditional catalog essay.
The gallery, open from Wednesday to Saturday, noon to 6 p.m., invites the public to attend related programming. Events include a film screening of ‘The United States of Hoodoo’ hosted by Danny Simmons, a family-friendly storytelling session with Saundra Gilliard, and ‘On Blackness: Artist Talks and Panel’.
‘Dolls, Idols, and Ideals’ promises to be an enlightening exploration of Black identity and culture. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or someone interested in learning more about the African Diaspora, this exhibition is a must-visit.
InLiquid Gallery can be found within the vibrant Crane Arts Building, nestled in Philadelphia’s South Kensington neighborhood. For more information, click here.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.