African Diaspora Art Museum of Atlanta (ADAMA)

Atlanta Art Week Event:

Black Gaze, Black Bodies | Downtown

Tuesday, October 3, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Pittsburgh Yards - 352 University Ave, Atlanta, GA 30315

Free w/ RSVP

Pittsburgh Yards has ample on-site and free parking.

About:

Curated by Paris-based, Ghanaian curator Esse Dabla-Attikpo, Black Gaze Black Bodies is a dynamic exhibition that draws inspiration from the rhythmic interplay of hip-hop, weaving together visuals from diverse African, European, and American perspectives. Through this antiphonal approach, we create a platform for thought-provoking discussions and exchanges.

Our mission is to challenge the public's preconceived notions about male hip-hop artists as shaped by the media. We invite you to unlearn these stereotypes and explore a more authentic portrayal of hip-hop culture. By questioning established notions of masculinity, we aim to present a narrative that resonates with the spirit of this vibrant art form.

While the concept of the "male gaze" typically carries negative connotations within the realm of gender inequality, in this context, it refers to the passionate photographers I collaborate with. These talented individuals bring their love for hip-hop culture, using their gaze to capture its essence and elevate it to new heights.

One of ADAMA's key objectives is to amplify the voices of artists from the African diaspora, giving them a space to share their stories and experiences. Through immersive installations, interactive exhibits, and thought-provoking performances, the museum aims to create a dialogue between artists, visitors, and the broader community. By doing so, ADAMA cultivates shared learning and understanding, bridging cultural gaps and fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

ADAMA's commitment to facilitating meaningful points of connection extends beyond its physical space. The museum actively collaborates with other cultural institutions, both locally and globally, to promote cross-cultural dialogue and create opportunities for artists to showcase their work in diverse contexts. Through partnerships with galleries, educational institutions, and community organizations, ADAMA expands its reach and impact, ensuring that the voices of the African diaspora are heard and celebrated worldwide.

As an institution deeply rooted in Atlanta, ADAMA recognizes the city's historical significance as a center for African-American culture and activism. The museum honors Atlanta's legacy while also challenging conventional narratives and redefining the future of contemporary art. Our exhibitions, public programs, and community engagement initiatives spark conversations, provoke thought, and encourage visitors to explore the complexities of the African diaspora's contributions to global culture.

In its short existence, ADAMA has already become a beacon of creativity, diversity, and inclusivity. By celebrating the vibrant and dynamic art forms emerging from the African diaspora, the museum serves as a space for empowerment, inspiration, and transformation. ADAMA invites visitors to embark on a journey of discovery, embracing the vastness and richness of the African diaspora's artistic expressions and celebrating the interconnectedness of our global family.

https://adamatl.org/connect | @adama_atl

Image Credits:

Rapper Stic, from the group Dead Prez in the park he often spends time at, Oct. 2022 by Selorm Jay

Ghanaian Producer, The Stallion, at home in Berlin, March 2021, by Selorm Jay

Chance the Rapper, in a cafe in Accra, January 2022 by Selorm Jay

Select images from opening reception for 'We Need Love" exhibition