MECA&D presents the third Art in Exodus exhibition.
MECA&D is specifically interested in partnering with people of color who also identify as women, are members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and/or have experienced religious persecution.
We recognize that language can be elusive. We welcome any questions and comments about our intent and mission.
Maine College of Art & Design is pleased to present the third Art in Exodus exhibition in its flagship Porteous Building, from May 30-June 20, 2019. Art in Exodus is a mentoring and exhibition project through which refugee artists and Mainers from underrepresented populations share their art and culture. Art in Exodus began in recognition of World Refugee Day, which takes place every year on June 20. Watch for other World Refugee Day Celebrations in Portland!
The exhibition Art in Exodus will feature artists and an opening reception from 5–8pm on Thursday, June 6. Details will follow. The exhibit will also be celebrated during the Friday, June 7 First Friday Artwalk and include work from featured artists for sale.
Mentoring Artist Titi De Baccarat says, “In Gabon, I made art as an expression of political discontent and to promote peace and unity between nations. Since moving to the US, I have had no money for materials, so I have had to collect objects to make my art. My goal is to share my African identity and connect the African and American cultures. I hope my art work opens dialogue about people who are different from us, and to help people to understand and accept each other.”
This project reflects MECA&D’s historic and ongoing interests in diversity, community and public engagement and supports our mission to “educate artists for life.” There is strong value in inviting refugee artists and members of underrepresented communities to exhibit at one of Portland’s premier art spaces, where artists can gain greater visibility, interact within a central core of the Maine/Portland art community, and further their professional development skills.
The exhibition initially started as a way to recognize World Refugee Day, a global celebration that is held annually to honor the courage and struggles of the more than 15 million people worldwide displaced by war and persecution. Each year, Maine welcomes refugees from war-torn countries and helps them to rebuild their lives in safety. Since 2002, Maine has resettled over 4,000 refugees from 24 countries.
This project is funded in part by the Moser Family Foundation, with in-kind support from the Office of Maine Refugee Services, Maine College of Art & Design, and participating artists.
Featured artwork (L-R): Oud by Jawad-Al-Fatlawi (Baghdad, Iraq) and sculpture by Titi de Baccarat (Gabon, Africa)