I'm not sure if it's a cause per se, but my work is about illuminating our world, in hopes that we clearly see what connects us. The proposed installation is a series of black glass acting as a mirror in which the viewer will not only see themselves but hopefully a great deal more. The black mirrors, much like the ones we encounter when our electronic devices are powered off, are a metaphor for the ubiquitous images the viewer is not seeing. The images of the unequal use of force which have disappeared into a void of apathy are now reimagined by the viewer faced with their mirrored selves. I am connected to this "cause" or rather work because I am a Black woman artist.
I will use the space for the creation of a video for a media installation on the empathy afforded Black women. Em•pa•thy - the ability to understand or feel what another is experiencing from within their frame of reference i.e., the capacity to place oneself in another’s position. Through empathy any artistic work may become a mirror of the self. This piece is meant to explore the relationship between the two. “The gruesome invites us to be either spectators or cowards, unable to look.” - Susan Sontag Regarding the Pain of Others But if the viewer centers themselves within the gruesome will they remain spectators and cowards or be spurred to act? And is seeing oneself reflected in the chaos of the gruesome the surest route to eliciting empathic action?
Peerspace is on a mission to bring people together. We believe it is impossible to achieve that goal unless we also fight for equality and access to resources in the communities we serve.
Having a space to gather, create, and exchange ideas is an important part of any movement. In order to magnify voices that are often quieted, Peerspace will sponsor venues for people who challenge prejudice and fight for social justice and equality.
Each quarter, we will sponsor space for three projects that are relevant to our community. These projects can range from fundraisers and educational initiatives to art exhibits and photo series.
