Exhibition of Student Work at Connect Gallery
Mitigating Evidence Exhibition
Connect Gallery, 1504 E. 53rd St. Chicago, IL
Tuesday and Thursday 12-3pm, Saturday 1-6pm, and by appointment.
Connect Gallery, a fresh space in the Hyde Park neighborhood curated by Rob McKay of THĒARĒgroup and The Silver Room, is hosting a collection of Free Write student writing and art. The exhibition is a new take on the Mitigating Evidence theme that guided our recent annual exhibition at Chicago Art Department.
Mitigating Evidence is a strategy to interrupt the presumptions, stereotypes and fears about people in detention, jail, and prison. Mitigating Evidence is a space in which incarcerated artists are reclaiming their artistry, authorship, and, therefore, their humanity. Mitigating evidence is presented in legal proceedings, either to impact the court’s decision or to alleviate harsh sentencing. Presenting a curated selection of work made by Free Write Arts and Literacy students, the exhibition offers community members the opportunity to view a wide range of art and writing, learn about issues of juvenile incarceration in Illinois, and respond to the sociopolitical climate that has given rise to the Prison-Industrial Complex.
Connect Gallery’s mission is to take intimidation out of the gallery experience by merging community and culture, creating a space that inspires social innovation through art. Mitigating Evidence will be open until mid-February.
Check out some photos and videos of the space, including a performance by Free Write alumnus Marshawn Knight during The Silver Room’s 15th anniversary party as well as footage from our collaboration with the legendary open mic The Gala.