The Retort

The Yellowstone Art Museum Presents Speaking Volumes: Transforming Hate

February 19th, 2010 by Press Release For The Retort

More than 100 artists from coast to coast responded to the Holter Museum of Art’s open invitation to reflect upon or transform white supremacist hate books and similar propaganda. Starting with the concept of persistent and insidious prejudice, and a supply of printed white supremacist materials, these artists directly demonstrate the cathartic potential of art making.

The astonishing and moving results—in sculpture, video art, painting, photography, collage, printmaking, book art, beadwork, fiber, and performance—are thought-provoking and insightful. The works in Speaking Volumes reflect on social inequity, civil dialogue, and the unique responsibilities that are an inseparable part of espousing “liberty and justice for all.” In these works, hate is transformed, dark turns to light.

The exhibition includes work by major American artists Faith Ringgold, Betye Saar, and Jaune Quick-to-See Smith as well as works by many Montana-based artists. Diverse and sensational work is included from artists based from Washington state to Georgia, from Brooklyn to New Mexico—and everywhere in between.

Speaking Volumes is accompanied by research guides, curriculum components for school groups, frameworks for public discussion, and hands-on activities.

This exhibition has been coordinated by the Holter Museum of Art, Helena, Montana, and is scheduled to tour statewide from 2008 to 2010.

For more information about this exhibition or sponsorship options, please contact Patti S. Townsend or Christine Pierce, Sponsorship Coordinators, at 406-256-6804, Extension 236.