In their inaugural Artist-In-Residence Alumni exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Art at Maine College of Art & Design (ICA at MECA&D), we invited three previous residents; Dianne Smith (Spring: April-May 2022); Nyugen E. Smith (Spring: May-June 2020) and Carl Joe Williams (Summer: June-July 2021) to continue their exploration of material, media, and community which emerged throughout their residencies. This exhibition offered a perspective on the lives, histories, and experiences of Black/Brown cultures and communities that have been historically siloed, suppressed, and traditionally removed from the canon of art history. 

These artists are examining, deconstructing, and reinventing new ways of making to accurately reflect global communities. It is our hope that our Black/Brown audiences continue to see themselves, their community, and stories as valid, honored, and valued. Exemplified by the works of Dianne, Nyugen, and Carl, our belief is that art, along with active community engagement, is imperative for manifesting change.

Visions for our Future; Echoes of our Past (ICA gallery, Portland, ME, March 26th-May 6th 2022). Co-curated by Indigo Arts Alliance Deputy Director, Jordia Benjamin, and our Studio and Program Coordinator, Ashley Page, Dianne Smith, Nyugen E. Smith, and Carl Joe Williams.