Reflecting on current events and the rise of a new totalitarian aesthetic, the Blackfish artists respond with a month-long affirmation of cultural resilience and artistic freedom in Signs of Dissent.
Building on the long tradition of artist-as-activist, Signs of Dissent addresses both emergent political threats and the often longstanding structures that empower them. Confronting the reemergence of 20th-century specters of xenophobia and ultranationalist authoritarianism, Signs of Dissent reasserts the power of art in shaping the future.
This purposeful and timely exhibition is accompanied by a month of community engagement and cultural programming, where Blackfish Gallery will host a series of workshops and performances. Complimenting the work and building the frameworks for action, these collaborations embrace the strength and passion of creative resistance.
February 7
7:30 p.m.
- Lauren Sheehan (roots Americana)
- Hobnail (Irish music)
February 13
6 p.m.
- News of the Day workshop/performance
with John Daniel Teply Gallery
February 14
2 p.m.
- The Power of Paradox: Salon Discussion with Ellen Goldschmidt, Merridawn Duckler, Ann Martini
7:30 p.m.
- MOsley WOtta (spoken word/hip-hop/documentary)
- Dan Kaufman (western-style rock)
February 20
6 p.m.
- Pressing Back: Printmaking as Protest Talk and Printmaking Workshop with Hannah Theiss
February 21
1 p.m.
- Panel Discussion in collaboration with The Black Gallery, Don't Shoot Portland, and CoDesign Collaborative, followed by Protest Poster Workshop at The Black Gallery (2 p.m.)
7:30 p.m.
- The Banshee Chorus (musical theatre)
- Reed and Wolf (queer performers)
February 27
7:30 p.m.
- Jam Busters (bluegrass)
- Bug Toast (progressive folk)