THE (RE)CLAMATION EXHIBITION

a youth curated exhibition coming in 2024

(Re) C L A M A T I O N 

/ˌrekləˈmāSH(ə)n/

noun.  the process of claiming something back or of reasserting a right.

We all have a right to define ourselves. But as Black folks that right to define ourselves is not a given one.  Colorism, texturism, racism, homophobia, sexism, and so much more tell us stories of ourselves that hurt. The ideas circling around about what it means to be good enough, Black enough, pretty enough, dignified enough … and just simply enough cause us to doubt ourselves and it affects our mental health. Our journey to define self is often wrought by stereotypes, others definitions of Blackness, projections of what people think we should be. 

So what does it look like to powerfully (re)claim ourselves as a practice of mental wellness? 

We are inviting Black girls and nonbinary youth ages 14-22 across North Carolina to submit their art and stories of (re)clamation as a practice of mental wealth. We will show ourselves and the world what we look like whole, well, and enough.

SUBMIT ART & STORIES THAT

  • RECOGNIZE

    art/stories that reveal power by telling a story of your subject, people, or experiences that are untold or undertold.

  • AFFIRM

    art/stories that empower by providing emotional support, encouragement, or/and asserts the dignity or worth of individuals or groups as it relates to your subject.

  • CONFRONT & DISRUPT

    art/stories that reclaim power by telling truths to lies, correcting misconceptions, or repairing injuries.

How to participate

Eligible artists must submit photographs, visual art, poems, short stories, and essays by March 11th, 2024.

Artists must reside in North Carolina, be between the ages of 14-22, and identify as Black girls, gender-expansive youth, or women.

About this Project

The Arts & Activism Apprentices at The Beautiful Project are a group of trained Black girls and nonbinary youth activists who use photography, visual arts, writing & care to explore cultural activism within their artistry. This includes exploring Black feminist movements, reading, watching and discussing Black feminist text and art. This year’s apprenticeship focuses on using art to explore radical healing and healing justice as it relates to Black girls, gender-expansive youth, and women in our community. 

This exhibition is supported by The Durham Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources & is part of The Durham Arts Council Exhibit Program.