Video: Beyond Granite Reflections

With the Beyond Granite exhibition closing a few weeks ago, I wanted to take a moment to delve into the meaning of commemoration here in Washington, DC. This video offers notes on the specific elements of each of the six installations, but also delves into the motivations behind the artists' design choices.

What truly struck me was the profound way in which these installations connected with the existing commemorative landscape of the Mall. It was fascinating to witness the powerful intersections between history, art, and remembrance, and how they all intertwine to create a tapestry of meaning that —in theory— transcends time. Even if the exhibition was but one month in duration, the reflection on commemoration will continue.

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Exhibition Spotlight: Afro-Atlantic Histories

Afro-Atlantic Histories is both 1) an historical exhibition about the African diaspora *and* 2) an array of depictions of the African diaspora in art, past and present. Expectedly, it's more the latter, but art can inspire us to learn more, and also inform us in the meantime.

Hosted at the National Gallery of Art (NGA), this exhibition feels extremely worldly, perhaps more than any other recent exhibition there. Originally this show debuted in 2018 at Brazil's Museu de Arte de São Paulo.

This show has over 130 artworks and objects from the 17th century to today. Media from paintings, to metal & wood sculptures, to photographs, to video are all present, and more. The entire show comprises about six galleries, which is substantial for NGA. It is worth a trip.

Afro-Atlantic Histories is open through July 17, 2022.

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The 40 Year Old Vigil: Patreon Preview

This week on Patreon:

What happens to a round-the-clock vigil when the park it inhabits is closed? I talked with Philipos, a 30 year (and going) participant in the longest running anti-war protest in the U.S. With Lafayette Park temporarily closed, the holders of the vigil must adapt.

How do we publicly grieve over the loss of life due to covid-19? I visited an ephemeral memorial in DC that honors the 200,000+ Americans who have died due to coronavirus. It’s both interactive and a statement piece with stark, plain visuals I convey as best I can through photography.

And later this week: Museums in DC are starting to reopen, but a new museum that transcends physical objects is opening for the first time ever in the heart of downtown DC.

Get weekly DC history posts and stay up to date on how DC is changing during these extraordinary times.

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5 Outdoor Spaces to Socially Distance Right Now [Patreon Preview]

Am I making lists now?

I’m making lists now.

Here are my Top 5 outdoor places to enjoy the summer AND easily social distance from others.

1. United States Capitol Grounds

There are about 60 acres of open grounds surrounding the Capitol Building. Most of this land is open grass with light landscaping and heritage trees. Some areas, especially on the east front, are paved but open and pedestrian friendly. Benches are few and far between, but retaining walls can be used for sitting, and there are large expanses of grassy ares kept at a low height conducive for sitting or laying down on (bring a blanket!). On the east front, stake out a spot under a tree and chill out. On the west front, stop in the Summer House for a cooling off break. Open daily!

See the rest of this list on Patreon! You can support my work and get weekly DC history and culture posts through memberships starting at $3 per month.