Post Colonial Cultural Expressions in ‘Dignity & Pride’
[JACKSONVILLE, FL] January 16, 2024 – To shed light on the obscured stories and suppressed voices that have beenmarginalized by colonial histories, The Ritz Theatre and Museum proudly presents "Dignity and Pride." This groundbreaking exhibition by Marcus Williams seeks to challenge prevailing narratives, provoke critical thinking, and foster a deeper understanding of the multifaceted impacts of colonialism on diverse cultures.
Date: January 21, 2024 to March 3, 2024
Location: Ritz Theatre and Museum, 829 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202
"Dignity and Pride" delves into the historical tapestry of hand-based communication within the Black community,transcending continents and centuries. Scholars have noted that such unique salutations, whether observed in a municipal pool or a sacred church space, serve as affirmations of filial connections within the Black community. In exploring the legacy of the use of our hands as a means of communication and survival, the artist also considered the cultural significance of our hands in other facets of our lives throughout history. This exhibition highlights the enduring cultural links between Black people across various geographic and social landscapes, specifically through the way we use our hands. In addition to our greetings and hand gestures, the use of our hands has been a constant point of distinction in various areas of our existence and allows us to maintain some connection to other parts of the African diaspora.
“This is for the culture, for the art lovers, for the community.” Imani Thorne. This thought-provoking exhibit features a nuanced perspective on what colonialism sought to discourage and suppress. Colonialism, a complex and often painful chapter in human history, has left an indelible mark on societies across the
globe. While the dominant discourse has often highlighted the triumphs and achievements of colonial powers, "Dignity and Pride" takes a step towards acknowledging the voices that were discouraged, marginalized, and silenced during this period. From indigenous cultures and their rich traditions to alternative forms of resistance and resilience, the exhibition challenges visitors to confront the uncomfortable truths often left untold. Maya Matheison will be showcasing her exhibit “Beautifully Damaged” in the Ritz as well. She has been working extremely hard with a new medium. “Using plaster has been super therapeutic, so I created a body of work that shows how finding your center, you can find beauty and all things.” In "Dignity and Pride," the artist aims to cast a positive light on aspects of Black culture often framed as illegitimate or of
lower class by colonizing forces. By highlighting the intricacies in the language of our hands, from greetings to rhythms, accessorizing to prayer, this exhibition celebrates the enduring spirit of dignity and pride within the Black community.
Join us at the Ritz Theatre and Museum as we embark on a journey of introspection, and learning.
For more information, www.ritzjacksonville.com
Media & Press Contacts:
Marcus Williams - Chief Artist and Curator
[email protected]
David Phillips – Marketing Manager ASM Global [email protected] 904.630.4026
About The Artist:
Marcus WIlliams is dedicated to [mission statement]. Through exhibitions, programs, and initiatives, he aims to invite viewers to navigate through obscured and revealed elements. Acrylic paint forms the core medium, complemented by experimental applications of spray paint and oil sticks on diverse surfaces like canvas and wood. "Dignity and Pride" is a testament to his commitment to fostering dialogue, understanding, and inclusivity in our community.
About ASM Global Jacksonville:
ASM Global-Jacksonville manages seven sports, entertainment, and convention venues on behalf of the City of Jacksonville. Our beautiful venues include: TIAA Bank Field, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Florida-Georgia, the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl, and Monster Jam.
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VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, showplace of such entertainment greats as Kenny Chesney and Jimmy Buffett and home to the Arena Bowl Champions Jacksonville Sharks and the Jacksonville IceMen.
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121 Financial Ballpark, home of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and Florida vs FSU Baseball.
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The Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, stage to Broadway and music elite like Wicked, James Taylor and Diana Ross; and home of the FSCJ Artist Series and the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra.
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The Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, a historic renovated train station providing a unique venue for meetings, social events, and convention.
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The Ritz Theatre and Museum, located in Jacksonville’s historic African American community of LaVilla, celebrating the artistic culture of African American life in Northeast Florida and the African Diaspora with museum exhibits, concerts, films, lectures, dance, and dramatic arts.
Committed to the Jacksonville community, the guests that enjoy our venues and the clients that utilize them, ASM Global-Jacksonville provides the ultimate event experience in Northeast Florida. ASM Global is the world’s leading producer of entertainment experiences. It is the global leader in venue and event strategy and management – delivering locally tailored solutions and cutting-edge technologies to achieve maximum results for venue owners. The company’s elite venue network spans five continents, with a portfolio of more than 325 of the world’s most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention, and exhibition centers, and performing arts venues.
