March 1–December 11, 2024
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Credit: Rythum Vinoben
The exhibition Art and the Freedom Struggle: The Works of Mumia Abu-Jamal curated by Melaine Ferdinand-King, PhD Candidate in Africana Studies, offers a poignant exploration of artistic expression within the confines of incarceration. Inspired by Abu-Jamal's archives and essay "Art & Incarceration," the exhibit showcases how creativity persists as a vital means of self-expression and social commentary amidst the challenges of the carceral state.
Abu-Jamal, known internationally as a political prisoner, uses his artistic mediums—including painting, drawing, poetry, and music—to bridge the gap between the "inside" and "outside" worlds. His works reflect a profound commitment to themes such as abolition, Black liberation, and community-building. The exhibition and activation space encourages viewers to reflect on Abu-Jamal’s story in relation to the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice.
The exhibition is accompanied by a catalog, featuring an exclusive 2024 essay by Mumia Abu-Jamal, written and recorded by Abu-Jamal for the exhibition. An original music video for Abu-Jamal’s composition, “Panther Walk” is also available online, arranged by Marcus Grant, Ph.D. candidate in Musicology & Ethnomusicology.
Credit: Rythum Vinoben
The Simmons Center has supported the curator in hosting private tours to international and student visitors and in organizing three events:
- The Art and the Freedom Struggle Community Discussion & Mixer (May 23, 2024) at AS220 in downtown Providence featuring speakers:
- Mumia Abu-Jamal, exhibition artist, scholar, and political prisoner
- Ashanti Alston, former member of the Black Panther Party
- Jesse LaTonya Andrews, Black and Pink
- Jay Lew, AS220 Youth Music Coordinator
- Melonie Perez, Direct Action for Rights and Equality
- Brandon Robinson, STOP TORTURE RI
- A Commencement Forum Workshop: On Mumia Abu-Jamal, Art, Incarceration, and Creating Activation Spaces with Melaine Ferdinand-King at the John Hay Library (May 25th, 2024)
- Voices from the Movement: A Radical Theater and Black August Workshop with Jericho Boston & Jihad Abdulmumit at Rites and Reason Theatre (August 24th, 2024).