The Road Ahead was a Roosevelt Island RIVAA Gallery group exhibition featuring the works of Gen Z artists curated by Elena Jordan, Amazia Thompson, and Tiko El Outa which opened on June 27 and closed today July 14.
Roosevelt Island resident and Gallery RIVAA member artist Laura Hussey shares this interview conducted by writer S. Nass with the three curators of The Road Ahead in a question and answer format. Here’s an excerpt of the interview:
Interviewer: Thank you all for joining me today. Lets start with the
inspiration behind “The Road Ahead” exhibition. Elena, could you tell us
what motivated the theme of history, forgiveness, and the transformative
power of art?
Elena Jordan: Certainly. “The Road Ahead” was born from a collective
desire to explore how art can serve as a bridge between our past, present,
and future. We wanted to delve into the idea that forgiveness, as Hannah
Arendt eloquently put it, can reverse the irreversible flow of history.
This theme resonates deeply with the challenges and opportunities facing
todays society, urging us to confront our past in order to pave a path
forward.
Interviewer: Amazia, your statement about honoring the transformative
power of youth is quite compelling. Could you expand on how this theme
manifests in the artworks featured in the exhibition?
Amazia Thompson: Absolutely. Throughout history, young people have been
catalysts for change, often pushing boundaries and reshaping societal
norms. In “The Road Ahead,” we showcase artworks by a diverse group of
Gen-Z artists who embody this spirit of innovation and resilience. Their
works not only challenge established narratives but also celebrate the
creative energy that propels us towards a future where inclusivity and
empathy prevail.
Interviewer: Tiko, you have been recently appointed as board of director
at RIVAA Gallery, and this is your first group exhibition as a curator.
What was your vision for assembling this diverse array of artworks? How do
you see these artists contributing to a larger societal dialogue?
Tiko El Outa: Our vision with “The Road Ahead” was to curate a dynamic
conversation that disrupts conventional norms and amplifies the voices of
young artists. We wanted to showcase works that provoke thought, spark
dialogue, and invite viewers to reconsider their perspectives on history
and its impact on our collective future. These artists are not just
creating art; they are challenging us to imagine new possibilities and
advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society….
Here’s the full interview with photos.
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More info on RIVAA Gallery at their website.
