Galleria Anna Marra proudly announces the unveiling of "How Do You Want to See Yourself," a groundbreaking group exhibition curated by the esteemed Ghanaian-American curator Larry Ossei-Mensah. Set to captivate audiences from April 10th, 2024, to May 25th, 2024, this exhibition marks Ossei-Mensah's third curated exhibition with Galleria Anna Marra, promising an immersive exploration of the global Black experience.

I can change through exchange with others without losing or diluting my sense of self.
-Edouard Glissant

At the heart of "How Do You Want to See Yourself" lies a profound meditation on the intricacies that define the Black journey worldwide. Through a diverse array of artistic mediums, including painting, collage and photography, the featured lineup of Adegboyega Adesina, Kwesi Botchway, Cydne Jasmin Coleby, M. Florine Démosthène, Jerrell Gibbs, Jammie Holmes, YoYo Lander, Stephen Langa, Joiri Minaya, and Lauren Pearce offers poignant reflections on self-perception in a society often inclined to negate Black humanity and visibility. Drawing upon Du Bois' "double consciousness" concept, the artists courageously confront the narratives of marginalization, contending with the complexity of opacity to embrace the richness and depth of the Black experience. Their works challenge preconceived notions, affirming the autonomy and complexity of Black identity.

Even when I’m fighting for my identity, I consider my identity not as the only possible identity in the world.
-Edouard Glissant

"How Do You Want to See Yourself" transcends geographical boundaries, inviting viewers to engage with a multiplicity of perspectives from Latinx, Caribbean, African American, and African artists working on the continent. Against the backdrop of Rome, Italy, this exhibition serves as a powerful catalyst for dialogue, prompting critical reflection on the dynamics of representation and visibility.
 

Through an innovative blend of inquiry and assertion, the exhibition invites audiences to contemplate the transformative potential of authentic representation. By embracing fluidity and drawing on diasporic histories, "How Do You Want to See Yourself" charts new territories in cultural expression, offering a platform for inclusive discourse and collective empowerment. "We are thrilled to present 'How Do You Want to See Yourself,' a testament to the resilience and dynamism of the Black diaspora," says curator Larry Ossei- Mensah. "This exhibition is not only a celebration of identity but also a call to action, challenging us to reimagine the possibilities of representation in today's global landscape."

As Italy's cultural epicenter, Rome provides an evocative backdrop for this seminal exhibition, inviting audiences to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and cultural exchange.

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ITA

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