My Global Hustle

RENAISSANCE FINE ART (“RFA”) will host Girl Talk: Narratives by Eight Women co-curated by Deborah Willis, photographer, author of the “Posing Beauty in African American Culture from 1890 to the Present,” chair of the Department of Photography & Imaging Department at the Tisch School of the Arts, New York University and M. Liz Andrews, performance artist and arts administrator. The exhibition will open with a reception March ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­12, 2010, 6 – 9PM at the Renaissance Fine Art Gallery located at 2075 Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Blvd, Harlem, New York.  Exhibition Dates: March 12 – April 10, 2010.

Girl Talk is a presentation of photographs, paintings, film, jewelry and quilted pieces exploring the themes of imposed identity, beauty, tradition and self-definition. The title of the show is inspired by the song “Girl Talk” by Dakota Staton. “Her rendition of “Girl Talk” reminds us of the importance of women sharing stories and telling histories. The history of women in this nation is comprised of a multitude of stories, struggles and successes.” Willis declares.

Through their artistic works, the eight women represented in Girl Talk honor and extend the narratives of many women. “It is a celebration and an opportunity for reflection about those who give and sustain life with their bodies, spirits and voices,” says Andrews.

The artists include: Ifetayo Abdus-Salam, a photographer whose work prompts contemplation of the notion of power, sexuality and identity; Micaela Anaya, a painter influenced by Frida Kahlo and Salvador Dali who will feature portrait pieces with a deliberate political message; Delphine Fawundu-Buford, a photographer, will show portraits emblematic of the song Four Women by the iconic Nina Simone; Anna Maria Horsford, better known as a television and film actor, will present jewelry and adornment designs; Letitia Huckaby, a photographer and journalist, uses quilts to create intimate narratives that reflect the cultural history of African Americans; Melvina Lathan, the first female licensed Boxing Judge in New York and artist who uses fiber to create works whose subjects range from history to contemporary culture; Carla Williams, a writer and photographer who will present portraits capturing images of femininity and

Kathe Sandler, an award winning independent documentary filmmaker who explores race, gender, culture, identity, and history.