This is What I Know About Art

Shawn Bellamy

Doris Cacoilo

Acts of Resistance

25 October 2023

This is What I Know About Art

    "This Is What I Know About Art" is a biography/memoir created by Kimberly Drew. As we know, Drew is a multifaceted black , queer, artist, and curator. Through this book,  she invites us to put on that lens as a black, queer, woman. Her identity is important because it is a reflection of her work, and an ultimate influence for writing this memoir-styled book. In this book, Drew attempts to showcase the low demand, and low acceptance of the minority within the art world, which is heavily dominated, and in noticeable favor of white men.,  In that attempt, she actually suggests in her prologue that , “Art and protest will forever be bound together” (Drew 8). Drew initiates this idea because she wants readers to draw the link between art and protest. Protest, and activism in regards to art draws curiosity, learning, and your own voice. Don’t be afraid to limit or stop yourself from exploring arts or ventures that may seem far-fetched, or only possible by an identity, color or gender. This is similar to the messages delivered through Bell Hook’s , “Understanding Patriarchy” as Hook states that “No mass body of women has challenged patriarchy and neither has any group of men.” This is important because we have to approach this awareness and activism in union, and claim those voices. We have to use our voices! You are capable, and your voice matters. Actually, voice is among the many forms of activism, which is one that Drew exploits . In regard to Drew’s affiliation with art, Drew's true passion for art emerged during a transformative summer internship at The Studio Museum in Harlem.  This experience led her to switch her major to art history upon returning to school. Drew was struck by the notable absence of Black American artists in her art history courses and textbooks, and knew she had to intervene. Drew's personal journey within the museum and art world is interwoven with her advocacy for black artists in the book, and for that I personally label this book as a protest. The switch for her major was Drew using her voice. It is a powerful and motivating story that shows the intersection of her experiences and her commitment to increasing the visibility and recognition of Black artists in the art world. 

In association with Drew ,authors, historians, and curators can be activists and follow Drew’s agenda by advocating for social art  change through their skills and platforms. Authors can write books and stories that raise awareness of art issues and foster understanding among readers, fostering empathy. Historians can conduct research and document marginalized voices and overlooked histories within the art and creator realm, thereby challenging established narratives and promoting a more inclusive understanding of what art actually is. And, curators can shape museum exhibitions that highlight underrepresented perspectives and shed light on a wide range of experiences. These professionals can help to raise awareness, challenge biases, and inspire positive change in the art realm because the reality is, we are in dire need of it.

In relevance to everything discussed above about Kimberly Drew, activism, protest, and awareness, I find it fitting to showcase the two works I found from the Artistas de Latinoamérica Sueños y Posibilidades exhibition in Hepburn Hall, as these works have mirror relation:

Alexandra Alvarez , 'Let the Children Play', 2021

Described in the exhibit, this work "employs acrylics and a soothing blue color palette to raise a poignant protest against child abuse, advocating for a world where innocence and freedom thrive unburdened." The description itself directly relates to everything discussed above. Alexandra Alvarez is beyond passionate with regard to the welfare of children, just how Kimberly Drew was beyond passionate about diversity and inclusion within the art realm. Though Alvarez and Drew have different focus points, I think it's vital to highlight their drive to raise awareness. This connects to the idea discussed earlier on using our voices! Alvarez is aware of the rising child abuse across the globe, and how fitting was it for her to translate that awareness into a piece of art?! I love the piece because I think the image really exemplifies the true innocence and softness of a child. That softness is something that abusers can't seem to see while in the act, so I find this powerful to simply just look at, and to see what others are clearly blind to.

Maria Lupiañez , 'One Hardcore Bubble', 2018

Described in the exhibit, this work focuses on "the portrayal of males as each of her sons enter their adolescent years. ... "the painting is meant for us to appreciate the innocence of childhood". In union, this piece of work actually connects to the last piece, with innocence being the common denominator. Both pieces accept the idea that childhood is at the full trigger of innocence . Lupiañez also promtoes the notion of finding oneself. Being young, you're so susceptible to emotions and acts, but it's very important that even at a young age, you know your importance and to establish yourself as you. This is a principle that Drew avidly talks about. Kimberly Drew never envisioned herself as an artist, or anything in the creator realm, but after some discoveries , she blossomed into her true self! I can agree that finding yourself can take some time, but at least you'll find yourself!