Lost and Found

Leah Hornsby

Project Description

With all the research and knowledge that I have collected over the years in relation to art institutions, budgeting, and the racism that occurs in these environments, I decided it was necessary to direct a show that puts the needs of artists of color first. Lost and Found is the Culmination of that. Lost and Found is a multimedia exhibition that delves into the themes of belonging, comfort, and human connection through visual storytelling in the form of photography, painting, and sound. This exhibition will also explore the concept of multiculturalism – recognizing the significance of shared experiences among individuals from different cultural backgrounds – and building an inclusive space for creatives of color in NYC. The show establishes a space that celebrates and unites people of color from multiple cultural backgrounds residing in New York City; challenging the traditionally exclusive gallery experience that has primarily been oriented around whiteness. The exhibition took place on December 10 at Shelter Gallery (127 Eldridge St).

What Form will your Final Project Take?

Art Exhibtion

Leah Hornsby, the director of "Lost and Found," a one night exhibition at Shelter Gallery. The exhibition is dedicated to exploring complex emotional journeys of individuals who grapple with new practices, sometimes at the cost of leaving behind comforts of their culture.

Who was supporting you in your work?

Fields Harrington (Capstone Professor), Rachel Carle Cohen (Owner and Director) of Shelter Gallery. Both Fields and Rachel assisted me by giving me advice for hosting and directing a gallery event, as both of them have done so in the past. Rachel, who is also my boss (I am Gallery Assistant and Digital Director of Shelter), allowed me to use the space to showcase these works.

Project Themes:

Research, creative, social justice, art exhibition, curation, direction

How has this project has been impactful or transformative?

This project has been extremely transformative, as it was my first time curating and directing a show- which is what I plan to do as a profession in the future. I learned so much, and now I feel more certain and solid in hosting these types of events in the future. I also was so grateful that I was able to create a space for the talented artists of color in the area.

What would you do differently?

I would try to space out the work more evenly. Working in the art world is hard, and oftentimes many things change- quickly, so you have to be able to keep up. However, if I had more of my work prepared beforehand, I probably would not have been as stressed.

Short summary of your experience:

My experience was extremely valuable. I learned how to operate a gallery, collect artwork, manage press and social media for an event effectively, and create something beautiful that various audiences could relate to.

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