INCLUSION

I was given the opportunity to curate and art exhibit at my Alma mater, Southern IL. University at Edwardsville, for Black History month. Once I said yes the first word that came to mind was 'inclusion', that particular word means a lot to me.  In my younger life I always felt excluded, isolated, over looked, and viewing life from the outside. I of course no longer feel that way, but it left a scar.

The opportunity for this show at 'this' site, at this time was the perfect place to use my powerful word.  I chose inclusion as my artist statement and this is what it means to me.  INCLUSION: artist with different view points, ideas, and delivery come together to celebrate the arts.  As people we are divided by race, gender, and a fixed set of biases, but the arts connect us all. Let's Celebrate!

There were 18 artist involved, including myself. My old friends and new friends did not disappoint, it was amazing how everything worked so well together.  The gallery director was my graduate studies professor and I learned a lot more from her while installing the exhibit, it was so magical seeing everything come together.  My very first art professor and my art therapy professor from years ago were also a part of the exhibit. It was great having people that I admired from my past be included in my present special day.  Aah INCLUSION never felt soooo good.