Gallery1 at Jackson State University will present a free, public debut exhibition of “Leaving Mississippi: Reflections on Heroes and Folklore” by artist Najee Dorsey at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29. The display will feature mixed media collages inspired by Dorsey’s Mississippi Delta roots.
“In the work I do, I present an American experience through the lens of my African-American perspective,” Dorsey said.
The collages include a number of unsung heroes of the American Civil Rights Movement and folklore legends such as Dangerfield Newby, Bass Reeves and Robert Charles.
“Leaving Mississippi” alludes to the early 20th century Great Migration of African-American people from the South fleeing their homes to pursue a better life in urban cities such as Harlem, Detroit and Chicago. Despite the transition, the migrants held onto Southern traditions, forming an American expressive culture.
The free event will also include an opening reception with refreshments and live music from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at 1100 J.R. Lynch Street, Suite 4.
Dorsey is also the founder of Black Art in America, which is the leading global social network and resource for African-American visual artists, collectors, galleries and art enthusiasts. For more information about Black Art in America, visit www.blackartinamerica.com.
“Leaving Mississippi” is presented in partnership with JSU’s College of Liberal Arts, College of Public Service, Mississippi Museum of Art and Black Art in America.