Mark Woolley Gallery

2015

May, 2015

Artist Statement: “Tight Rope” is my latest body of work drawing from the recent events in America’s ongoing violation of human rights under the banner of justice. Recent publicized police killings of black men throws this once again back into media focus. This is 2015. This is America. Slavery is over….and we have a black President, right? “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot” is every single day, every single day in our neighborhoods and my “tight rope” is one that ethnic and racial minorities walk every day. My work reflects powerful injustices and the will to resist and survive. My memories of growing up in the South have added to my awareness of the legacy that the slavery of African Americans has left with all Americans today. My intention is to solidify the memory of atrocities, exploitation and oppression so they will never be forgotten nor duplicated.

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Arvie Smith

A Portland-based painter, professor emeritus, lecturer, and community engager.

Location

Portland, Oregon

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