The Exhibition by Moses Mitchell is a deeply personal photographic and artistic exploration that builds upon the foundation laid by last year’s acclaimed release of the book, Black Matter. This exhibition takes the themes and stories introduced in the book and brings them to life in a new, immersive format, inviting viewers into an intimate journey through the resilience, beauty, and humanity of Black people.
The work is deeply rooted in Moses’ personal experiences, shaped by an upbringing where his father encouraged him to document humanity with dignity and authenticity. His journey spans decades of storytelling through the lens of his camera, culminating in this poignant collection that reflects his profound understanding of identity, community, and culture.
Moses’ artistic lens was sharpened during a pivotal period of self-exile in Paris, where he sought solace from the anxieties of living in America. The tragic and ongoing deaths of George Floyd, Eric Garner, Sandra Bland and other unarmed individuals at the hands of police became a call to action, compelling Moses to amplify the voices and humanity of those too often unseen and undervalued.
Black Matter does more than celebrate Blackness; it asserts its intrinsic value. Just as dark matter forms the cosmic framework, Black lives form the indispensable architecture of our world’s social and creative landscapes. This exhibition invites viewers to see and honor this presence, acknowledging that Black lives, Black culture, and Black existence – MATTER.
