UPRISING VII
Never Forget the Source: An Homage to Black Ancestry
February 5–29, 2024 | Groot Gallery
Co-curated by Ruhama Solomon and Queenie Wynter
The theme of ‘Never Forget the Source: An Homage to Black Ancestry’ is not merely a mantra but a heartfelt reflection of a Black artist’s personal journey in reclaiming and celebrating an array of identities. Growing up, the narrative of our ancestors often felt like whispers in the winds of time—stories obscured, histories untold. What is taught and portrayed in the media has always been a very specific stereotype despite the diversity of the Black diaspora. Yet, as we delve deeper into understanding our roots, we can unravel layers of resilience, wisdom, and cultural richness, awakening a profound sense of belonging that transcends temporal and geographical boundaries.
Where do we draw our inspiration from? We explored numerous cultures that hold a profound reverence for nature and themes deeply rooted in ancestral connection, for example, the Oromo heritage. In their Indigenous spiritual practices, nature’s sanctity resonates in the Odaa tree, revered as the epicenter of socio-political traditions. Also known as the sycamore tree, it symbolizes not just governance but embodies the holistic interconnectedness of Waaqefanna beliefs, rooted in the earth—the essence of all existence. The Oromo legacy, etched into the very foundations of the culture, reverberates through generations, guiding us to be world shakers and history makers in our own right.
The pursuit of honoring those before us doesn’t dwell solely in the past; it’s an ongoing commitment to safeguarding our cultural heritage while navigating the intricacies of adapting to new environments. As we pay homage to our lineage, integrating these values into our lives becomes a bridge between preserving our identity and embracing change. It’s this delicate balance of heritage and adaptation that strengthens and ensures the continuation of our ancestors.
UPRISING is an exhibition at St. Olaf College, narrating the experiences of Black people and celebrating Black history and culture through the visual and performing arts. Founded in 2017 in response to protests against racism on the St. Olaf College campus, this student-curated exhibition series creates space for marginalized Black voices on campus and fosters community interactions among students, faculty, and staff.
Attention artists! Submission guidelines will be shared on Instagram @uprisingsto. Stay tuned for more!
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