Tuesday, August 16, 2011

"Hairitage" at Arts Council Gallery Friday

The Yellow Springs Arts Council presents “Hairitage: a Cultural Journey,” an exhibit of drawings and paintings by Central State University Art Instructor Erin Smith. A Third Friday Fling Opening Reception will be held on Friday, August 19, 6-9 p.m. at the YSAC Gallery, 309 Xenia Avenue.


This rich exhibit explores issues pertaining to black culture and history. Themes of the show include adornment and how it is perceived historically and applied to contemporary fashion, and natural disasters and their effect on black culture.


Smith describes her exploration of these poignant issues…“While we may seldom realize or even choose to acknowledge it, each of us have cultural practices that we pull from our ancestors and share amongst one another... History truly does repeat itself, even through the fashioning of our hair, which traditionally represents status and maturity in many ethnic cultures, especially those of African ancestry. Through this series, Hairitage, let us not continue to allow ourselves to forget these values that seem so meaningless to us; these values were created to form bonds with our communities, appreciation amongst our friends, and loyalty to our elders and the traditions they established.”


Extended gallery hours are: Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. August 20, August 27, September 3 and September 10. Call 614.323.2784 for more information or to schedule a private viewing. For more information about YSAC, visit www.ysartscouncil.org.

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