MUNCIE, Ind. — There are many ways students express their creativity throughout college, especially on campus. In honor of black history month, Ball State's Fourth Wall Art Gallery welcomes “Still I Rise,” an exhibition discussing black history through artifacts and art pieces.
The "Still I Rise” exhibition is an open area for students to learn and contribute their own work to. Located on the fourth floor of the Arts and Journalism Building, the pieces reflect the culture and history of Black Americans and Ball State evolution.
“This is one of those opportunities where I'm able to take black history and really turn it into something where everybody can participate,” Christian Mason said.
Christian Mason, creator of ‘Still I Rise,’ prioritized Black history growing up and felt he had to make a project of his own to fulfill his creative itch. His background is not the main cause for the exhibit, but Faith Mackenzie, a student employee at David Owsley Museum of Art, tells us there is a lack of art inclusion in DOMA, which makes this exhibit even more meaningful.
“We have I think maybe 20 pieces in the entire collection, and that's a rough estimate– that are all accredited to black artists but that’s not a lot considering we have 10,000 pieces in the entire collection,” Mackenzie said.
The exhibition is open to all, and many students who participate find it uplifting to have the opportunity to showcase their hard work.
“I love being a part of the culture here at Ball State not just as a black artist, but as an artist in general,” said Mackenzie.
There will be a reception to celebrate the exhibition on Feb. 6 from 6p.m.-7 p.m. at the Fourth Wall Art Gallery. Art pieces are still being accepted throughout the exhibition until Feb. 12. Students should contact Mason for any new additions.
Contact Kahmara Munn with comments at Kahmara.munn@bsu.edu.
