The Intersection of Upholstery and Activist Art
Jamika Smith in Collaboration and Exhibition
Free and open to the public.
In recognition of Black History month, Gary artist Jamika Smith has created an installation of furniture that traces the complexities of the Black experience in America. In her art practice, Smith repurposes old and abandoned furniture, reupholstering the pieces in a creative context. For this exhibit, Smith worked collaboratively with community artists including painters, sculptors, and poets to create fourteen works that trace a peoples’ history from the African Empire and slave trade, through Jim Crow and Civil rights eras, to contemporary experiences. Each piece, presented as a lovely, inviting object, at closer look reveals a hidden story in visual or written form. These works act as Smith says, “as a unique and compelling entry point for people to examine and engage in critical discussions about the traumas and triumphs of African and Black History.” Many of community artists who collaborated on these works, among them Ish Muhammed, Rhondalyn Cox, and Nancy Hejna, have previously exhibited at the Gardener Center gallery.
Jamika Smith is a Board Member of the MBACD and is exhibiting in the Marshall J Gardner Center for the Arts for the second time in as many years — previously as part of the Community Show, 2022. Her ‘Miller Chair’ that was created as part of the ‘Soul of The City’ project sits at the front entrance to the gallery. http://teenaslegacy.com
The opening reception on Feb 2 features catering from Caribbean Roots and a performance by drummers Oshun'ala Falagbe and Mr. Olsbisi.
Jamika Smith is an artist and upholsterer, founder of Teena’s Legacy, and an MBACD board member. In honor of African and Black History Month, Teena’s Legacy will curate a dynamic exhibit in the spirit of African tradition and strong community heritage. Jamika will present an exceptional, one-of-a-kind art experience, showcasing established and emerging artists from the Northwest Indiana Region and the Chicagoland area.
“Blooming Out of Trauma Opening Reception” is part of the larger “Blooming Out of Trauma” event.
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