Cultural Insights

I believe curating an exhibition is better than a written final because we are able to get a better understanding of the artwork and develop new skills surrounding art. 

I believe curating an exhibition is better a written final for a few reasons. For example, by creating a mock exhibition, we are able to get a better understanding out of the artworks and the artists. By adding the mock exhibition piece, we are able to see the artworks and they relate to other pieces of art by that same artist. A mock exhibition allows us to focus more on the how and why of the artwork instead of reaching a maximum word count. A mock exhibition also allows us to focus on the different textures, materials used, brushstrokes, and styles of the artists in the artwork and display them in an appealing way. For example, from this mock exhibit I learned about Jae Jarrell’s use of different materials such as wool, suede, silk, velvet, wood, and cotton. She used different materials because at a young age she taught herself how to use different fabrics and materials. I also learned about her use of vibrant colors throughout her artworks. Throughout her artworks, she features different hues such as red, blue yellow, green, and purple. She uses these colors because her group AfriCOBRA encouraged the use of bright colors to display those of African descents in a positive light and to stand out. For example, the yellow ruffled stripe on the “Revolutionary Suit” was used to stand out among other gray two piece suits. 

I also believe that curating an exhibition is better than a written final because we were able to learn new skills surrounding art. For example, because of this project, I was able to create art labels. Before taking the African American Art class, I did not think I would have the opportunity to create an art label. Now, I know and understand the work that goes into creating an art label and how important it is. We also had the opportunity to learn a new platform, Omeka. With an understanding of Omeka, I am able to apply what I learned to future projects and assignments. 

I enjoyed having the opportunity to create a mock exhibition because it is not something I thought I would have an opportunity to do. As an economics major, I do not get the opportunity to learn much about art and its impact on history. I appreciate having the opportunity to create this mock exhibition because it is different from what I am used to.