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Championing Representation and Equity in Art: An Exclusive Interview with Curator Thomas James

The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter
The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter
Episode • Feb 4, 2021 • 44m

Welcome to "The Truth in This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee, and I’m thrilled to introduce our next guest: Thomas James, curator, arts facilitator, critic, and Visual Arts Director for Creative Alliance. We discuss his new exhibition BRIGHT.
 
Thomas is a curator with extensive experience in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area, joined Creative Alliance in 2018. His background includes crafting exhibitions with prominent organizations such as The Phillips Collection and The Jerusalem Fund. In his latest endeavor, the BRIGHT exhibition, he brings together ten Black American artists to showcase their stunning works in Creative Alliance's main gallery. This collection challenges mainstream portrayals of Black bodies, offering an authentic and vibrant depiction of Black life that encourages viewers to see Blackness in a new light.


Join us as we discuss:

  • Exploring the groundbreaking "Bright" exhibition curated by Thomas James, aimed at shedding light on underrepresented histories and narratives through the powerful lens of black artists. Expect to encounter captivating works that challenge conventional perspectives.
  • Get ready to meet Thomas James, an arts facilitator, and curator dedicated to supporting and promoting black artists. Expect to learn about his mission to bring representation and equity to the forefront of the art world, breaking free from historical marginalization.
  • Discover the path to becoming a curator as we uncover the essential steps: attending art shows, forging connections with artists and fellow curators, and developing your own unique vision for thought-provoking exhibitions. Expect to be inspired to take your first steps into this creative realm.
  • Explore the concept of equitable support for artists, where specialized assistance and artist development take center stage. Expect insights into how nurturing and prioritizing artists' growth can foster a thriving artistic community.
  • Be inspired by Thomas James' commitment to cultivating inclusive art spaces that embrace diversity and create opportunities for all artists to shine. Expect to witness the transformative impact of representation and equity in the art world.


EXHIBITION ARTISTS:
Ambrose
Marie Charlotte Amegah
Destiny Belgrave
Michael A. Booker
Schroeder Cherry
Andrew Gray
David Ibata
Jabari C. Jefferson
Megan Lewis (cover photo)
Arin Mitchell


Join us as we explore the world of exhibition art with Thomas James as he discusses his role as an arts facilitator and curator, emphasizing the importance of being a cultural protector and ensuring equitable representation for black artists. He shares insights into his upcoming exhibition, "Bright," which features the work of ten black artists from the DC and Baltimore areas. Thomas also provides advice for aspiring curators and art enthusiasts on how to appreciate and critique art.


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Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

  • Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
  • Edited by Daniel Alexis
  • Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

  • Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
  • Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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