Self Created Representation
Repesentation matters!
Richmond is home to a population of 226,604 people where the majority of which are a part of a minority group, but not all are represented. Despite having such a rich melting pot of cultures, we feel that the prevalence of minority representation in Richmond could always be improved. Many studies show how representation could improve self-esteem, and break down stereotypes inflicted on marginalized groups. Jenny Kidd’s ‘Representation’ beautifully captures the general concept, stating, “The study of representation has historically been deemed important in the study of communications because of the limited range of available resources we have to produce representations of the world, of people, events, and places.” This limited range of resources to produce representation is an idea we wished to tap into and try to remedy through our project.
Art galleries house pieces created by individuals of various ethnic backgrounds, and minority groups. They represent a safe space for those individuals to express themselves through art in sometimes unconventional ways. These galleries are what we wish to bring to our community because of their ability to not only entice people, but also bring perspectives from different identities into one place. In order to replicate the safe environment produced by art galleries, we wished to display our project in a busy space known for its display of knowledge and culture: a library.
By incorporating these two ideas, our project worked to enable teenagers to create representative art, and have it displayed in a public place. The process would begin with individuals submitting a concept composition, from which 4-5 pieces would be chosen to be displayed. We would then supply them with any art supplies they need in order to complete their project, and post their final products in a public venue for people all throughout Richmond to see.
The Inspiration Behind Our Project:
We drew inspiration from the Mending Walls mural art project here in Richmond! The project was created to bring more representation into our community creating a series of murals each crafted by two expert artists, both from different backgrounds, who have had to come together and create a piece that represents them. The community was also involved in the creation of these pieces, with people often volunteering to help out! While we can't line the streets with artwork we are still able to incorporate representation in the real world.
SAY THEIR NAMES
ALL PUT TOGETHER
EXTENDED HANDS
ONCE UPON WITH LOVE
Putting it out there
Students are able to submit their ideas for art through a google form, alongside a list of materials they might need. The form is advertised to students all throughout Henrico County, making sure everyone has a chance to apply and be heard. We sift through the responses and pick the top 3 based on originality, authenticity, and practicality. We are then able to meet with the artists and talk about materials, costs, timelines, and any practical help needed with the piece. We make it clear we're here to help out. Students are then given some time to complete the piece.
Our End Product and its Influence
The effectiveness of our project was determined by the feedback of the students participating. The students were given the form at the beginning of the project detailing their idea for their piece, in that form we also asked what they hoped to gain from this opportunity. After the project was completed, we then asked for feedback on their experience and how they feel this project affected them personally. This post-completion feedback, answered by each of the 4-5 participants, allowed us to access our success through this project. It also allowed us to understand the effect of this project on each of the students.
In the end, the goal of this project was to provide students with art supplies to create a work that speaks to who they are, through their specific stories. We also wanted to provide opportunities for minority groups to be the representation that we believe should be more prevalent in Henrico County. By allowing them access to higher-quality supplies, and the space to display the artwork that they make, we hoped to shine a light on their expiriences and world views
In the words of David M. Eagleman "Since we live in the heads of those who remember us, we lose control of our lives and become who they want us to be.” Representation is the first step in allowing individuals of minority groups to create their own identity instead of having to accept the one that others created for them. In displaying their view of the world through their respective lens, we are creating a more inclusive, representative, and accepting community in Richmond one step at a time.