“In Their Midst” is a talk and discussion lead by A.M. Weaver (LTA ’09) on the representation of the female body within multiple contexts and cultural references. The talk provides an analysis of artwork by Carrie Mae Weems, Berni Searle, Renee Cox, Shirin Neshat and Grace Ndiritu. The photographs and films by these artists range from the documentary and performative to the conceptual and share in common the exploration of the female form. These artist use themselves as subjects, thus becoming transformative agents. The talk will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2011, 3-5pm in the Leeway Community Room (1315 Walnut St., Ste. 832, Philadelphia, PA). For more information, email amweaver54@verizon.net or call 215-779-5931 or 215-747-7953.
Concept Statement:
“In Their Midst” is a photographic exposé and lecture series on the representation of the female body within multiple contexts and cultural references. Many of the artists featured are accomplished photographers who delve into the realm of filmmaking. This project provides an analysis of work by Carrie Mae Weems, Berni Searle, Renee Cox, Shirin Neshat and Grace Ndiritu. Imperatives shared in their work concern feminist, sociological and political agendas. The photographs and films by these artists range from the documentary and performative to the conceptual. With a focus on the female form, Weems, Searle, Cox, Neshat and Ndiritu use themselves as subjects, thus becoming transformative agents. Their images are not merely self-referential or portraits, but encapsulate a reading of the black/brown/white female that assumes multiple identifications. Encompassing reality, myth and fantasy, the representation of the female body challenges antiquated stereotypes, offering alternative readings. The artist as subject constructs interpretations of the feminine outside and beyond binary oppositions – black/white, male/female, private/public and nature/culture.
This project advances generalized discussion on feminism with particular attention to women of color. Revisiting gender issues, these artists merge art practices and social commentary; thus, articulating a prevailing trend in the contemporary arts.
The target audience for “In Their Midst” includes a transnational intelligentsia, art enthusiasts, the general public, scholars and art educators and the constituency of institutions and organizations dedicated to the promotion of diversity and documentation of artists of color and women in the arts. Because photography and film are an integral part of this presentation, cutting edge work in both mediums provides a heightened understanding of twenty-first century women in control of their image.
For more information, email amweaver54@verizon.net or call 215-779-5931 or 215-747-7953.
