Art and the Freedom Struggle: The Works of Mumia Abu-Jamal
The Gallery at the Ruth J. Simmons Center for the Study of Slavery & Justice, Providence, RI
March 1st-December 11th, 2024 (extended to January 30th, 2025)
Curated by Melaine Ferdinand-King
Inspired by Mumia Abu-Jamal’s 2012 essay, “Art & Incarceration,” Art & The Freedom Struggle: The Works of Mumia Abu-Jamal underscores the significance of creation under crisis.
Known internationally as a political prisoner, Abu-Jamal warrants considerable attention as an artist and cultural critic. In depicting historical figures, pop culture icons, and personal visions, Abu-Jamal reveals how artistic production functions as a mode of self-expression, a junction between “inside” and “outside” worlds, and a powerful tool for social commentary. His paintings, drawings, poetry, and musical compositions disclose, in part, the interests and concerns of an outsider-observer committed to freedom and being free while making sense of a carceral state. Themes throughout the exhibition include abolition, Black liberation, community-building, music, and sports.
The gallery also serves as an activation space. While experiencing the works on display, viewers are encouraged to reflect on Abu-Jamal’s story alongside their individual agency and relationship to the notion of struggle. We aim to spark engaged activity on the local level related to issues of mass incarceration and spirited dialogue on the importance of responding creatively in times of political duress.
Designer: Erin Wells Design
Explore the Exhibition Catalog
Listen to: “Panther Walk”, an original composition by Mumia Abu-Jamal, arranged by Marcus R. Grant for the Art and the Freedom Struggle exhibition
