Our South
We were first introduced to the Southbound art exhibit during Pecha Kucha 31. Mark Sloan, the collections co-curator briefly shared the overall concept of the artwork. Mark explained that the project hoped to shed light on the changes or lack thereof, in The South over the last few decades. The compilation of photos represents the perspectives of 56 different photographers interpretation of today’s New South.
Deeply intrigued, we took a few friends out to view the pieces. Half of the collection is being held at The Halsey Institute at The College of Charleston, our Alma mater. Our group of 6 meandered through the gallery, mocktail in hand, gazing thoughtfully into each image. Some photos caused a strong emotional response; while others were weirdly familiar. We discussed and expressed which photos were the most impactful. We then asked our group of professional black women, “What ‘The South’ meant to them?”:
We encourage you to visit The Southbound exhibit and explore what ‘The South’ means to you. We are a nation of diverse people with varied and complex backgrounds. To ignore the systematic disenfranchisement that took place in The American South would be to deny an important portion of our country’s history. Exhibits like Southbound remind us that we are not that far removed and that discussion is needed if we are to ever see change.
What we drank…
Surreal Sorrel
Unsweetened Hibiscus Tea + Cheerwine Syrup + Hooch Limeade Soda
Add unsweetened hibiscus tea and Cheerwine syrup to mixing tin full of ice.
Secure the lid, then shake tin passionately.
Pour mixture into rocks glass full of ice.
Carefully add Hooch soda until glass is full.
Take #GentleLadySips
http://southboundproject.org/ https://www.hoochitup.com/ http://halsey.cofc.edu/ https://cheerwine.com/ Photos by: https://theredsunflower.com/
Can’t thank you ladies enough for cultivating this experience! It really is magic when we get together!