DREAD SCOTT: WELCOME TO AMERICA
February 28, 2008 - June 1, 2008
Opening Reception: February 28th, 6-9pm
Artist Dread Scott makes revolutionary art to propel history forward. His art begins in a radical and realistic view of American society and international civil rights crisis - seeing it as a world where a tiny handful contols the great wealth and knowlege humanity as a whole has created. It is also a world of polarization, exploitation, and suffering. His art illuninates the hardships that American society causes for so many people, addressing the heart, resilience, and ideals many have to withstand and challenge against it. And above all it is a viewpoint that resonates clearly in the minds of not only those subjugated to such hardships, but hopefully for that of a transforming humanity- Scott’s work hopes to forge a radically dfferent world.
This exhibition includes mature content, and may not be suitable for young children.
Reception II - HAIRPOLITIC
Thursday, May 15, 2008 6-9pm
MoCADA: 80 Hanson Place, Brooklyn, NY
This event is a two-part program! Another opportunity to view Welcome to America and meet with artist Dread Scott and view the limited engagement of HAIRPOLITIC! Artist Kenya Robinson will present work in the 80 Arts Building’s foyer on the kinky, curly, relaxed, matted, braided, and shaved expressions of black hair. Using combs, mirrors, screws, text, nuts and bolts, Robinson re-imagines these objects- creating pieces that speak to notions of black beauty and ugliness.
Student Program for Malcom X’s Birthday
Monday & Tuesday, May 19-20, 2008 9am-12pm
Hanson Place Seventh Day Adventist Church (across the street from MoCADA)
Space is limited: Please RSVP to kg@mocada.org or 718-230-0492 x112
Artist Dread Scott will lead students in a discussion on the Dred Scott decision and how that profound moment in American history has influenced his work as a contemporary artist. Students will look at examples of Scott’s work and will be placed within a discussion of the role of art in 20th century activism. There will be two opportunities for students to attend this incredible event!
Dread Scott, Welcome to America is made possible by the Andy Warhol Foundation, J.P. Morgan Chase Foundation, Union Square Awards, NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, New York State Council for the Arts - A State Agency, and New York Community Trust. MoCADA would also like to extend special thanks to State Senator John Sampson, Senator Velmanette Montgomery, Senator Kevin Parker, Senator Eric Adams, State Assemblyman William Boyland, Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries, Assemblywoman Annette Robinson, Assemblyman N. Nick Perry, New York City Councilman Albert Vann, Councilwoman Letitia James, and Councilman Charles Barron, whose contributions and dedication to MoCADA and its community made the exhibition possible.