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Nearly 40 artists share array of perspectives on Black masculinity in exhibition’s second installment
EAST POINT, Ga., Aug. 24 — “Toxic masculinity” is defined as a culturally ingrained notion that equates manliness with domination, aggression, and the suppression of emotions.
“This exhibition seeks to challenge and deconstruct these harmful stereotypes, creating a space for a healthier, more balanced understanding of masculinity,” said rEN Dillard, who co-curated the latest exhibit at the ArtsXchange.
Hold the Line, Vol II: Celebrating Black Masculinity opened with a reception on Sept. 7 in the Jack Sinclair Gallery at ArtsXchange, 2148 Newnan St. in East Point. The artists talk will be from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 28 and the exhibit will be on view through Oct. 26.
The exhibit addresses the nuanced dynamic of Black toxic masculinity, rooted in white
supremacy and internalized racism, the curators said. Through various visual styles, techniques, and mediums — from the historic photography of Jim Alexander to the captivating paintings of Dr. Arturo Lindsay to the vibrant sculptures of — the artists explore the historical and contemporary impact of these ideas on Black men and society at large.
“It’s an extraordinary continuation of our mission to explore and define Black masculinity, building on the success of the first exhibit,” said Hebert, director of Clayton Arts, where the exhibit debuted in 2022. “But it’s not only an art exhibit; it’s a powerful statement about the strength, creativity, and resilience of Black men.”
Featured Artists
Jim Alexander • Suprim Allah • Jonathan Banks • Dr. Yahaya Bello • Gerald Byrd • Dr. Zerric Clinton • Kevin Cole • Ralph “rEN” Dillard • Najee Dorsey • Dr. Clint Fluker • Quamaine Giles • John Glover • Sam Guilford • Sean Haynes • Brian Hebert • Aaron Henderson • Tafawa Arthur Hicks • David Hodge • Reginald Laurent • Dr. Arturo Lindsay • Tony Loadholt • Sean Mulkey • Rukuumba Nedd • Arshaad Norwood • S. Darius Parker • Richard Perrin • Derrick Phillips • Cecil Reed Jr. • Hopeton Sinclair • Tony Smart • Lovett Thompson • Ric Washington • Darrien West • Irvin Wheeler • Dante Yarbrough • Kenneth Zakee
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