Well, two exhibitions that displayed my photography during Black History Month, one of which premiered my first documentary film, came down this weekend. It has been an overwhelmingly positive experience, and an enormous privilege to share two beautiful spaces with some brilliant artists. I am so grateful to Anthony Deiter for creating this opportunity for me at Claflin University’s beautiful Arthur Rose Museum of Art.
It’s been exciting to work with other colleagues at Claflin on these projects, too. I had such a positive experience with Ameen Hall on the documentary project last summer. Claflin was very supportive in getting these images printed and involving some students in curating the show. I never dared to hope that there would be another opportunity to show some of the photos on another show so soon. Then our new colleague Tabitha Ott invited me to submit some of the work for a juried show at the Orangeburg County Fine Arts Center. The jury graciously gave their nod on four photographs, and the opening was fun for the whole family.
At the opening of the Rose Museum show, Dr. Donna Gough gave an intro that included this brilliant quote from author Chuck Palahniuk about creating the communities we want to live in. It is pure joy to work with colleagues who believe so firmly in the importance of that project. After the first few gigs with another new colleague who’s doing fantastic work with eager young jazz players here at Claflin, all I can say is here’s to more, and soon!
Peter Hoesing 