Detroit-based interdisciplinary artist Sabrina Nelson invites audiences to embark on a profound journey through her traveling exhibition, “Frontline Prophet: James Baldwin.” Opening on Friday, August 2, 2024, at The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, this exhibit honors the centennial of the legendary writer, social critic, and activist James Baldwin. Through a rich tapestry of art, multimedia, and programming, Nelson crafts an intimate exploration of Baldwin’s enduring legacy. The exhibition is curated by two Detroit natives, Ashara Ekundayo and Omo Misha.
The Genesis of “Frontline Prophet”
Nelson’s journey with Baldwin began with an invitation from her friend, Detroit’s Poet Laureate jeasica Care Moore’s, to paint live at the James Baldwin Conference at The American University of Paris. “To prepare, I read extensively about Baldwin’s work,” Nelson recalls. This deep dive into Baldwin’s world spurred her to draw his image daily for 91 days in 2016.
It wasn’t until a studio visit from Ekundayo in 2022 where she found a drawer full of the sketchbooks that the research sparked interest in designing the now comprehensive “Frontline Prophet: James Baldwin” exhibit. Launched in August 2023, this interdisciplinary exhibit now stands as a testament to Baldwin’s powerful influence.”
Art and Technology Intertwined
A special offering in conjunction with the exhibition is the limited edition lithograph Nelson created to support the exhibition’s journey to Paris in September. “The lithograph, inspired by a sketch of Baldwin on brocade furniture, features altered wallpaper with cowrie shells symbolizing his wealth of knowledge,” she explains. This piece, produced with a master printer Lee Marchalonis, emphasizes the timeless craft of traditional printmaking, with only 25 signed and numbered prints available.”
The exhibit also embraces modern technology through an augmented reality (AR) component developed by BlackTerminusAR. This feature allows visitors to see and hear Baldwin’s face and voice, bridging the gap between the past and present. “The AR feature enhances the experience for young people, helping them understand Baldwin as a real person in our history,” Nelson notes. The audience’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly among younger visitors who find the integration of technology and art both engaging and enlightening.
Evolving Across Cities
Frontline Prophet” has evolved as it traveled from city to city, adapting to the unique energy and physical characteristics of each location. From Harlem’s Interchurch Center, resonating with Baldwin’s background as a young deacon and pastor, to New Orleans, Oakland, and Chicago, each venue has brought new dimensions to the exhibit. In Detroit, the show is set to be more dynamic than ever, featuring a myriad of activations and community programming. “We’re home. It’s James Baldwin‘s 100th birthday,” Nelson says.
The exhibit will include collaborations with Detroit’s Office of Arts, Culture & Entrepreneurship and Wayne State University, including film screenings, artist talks, and tiny libraries throughout the city, creating a rich, multifaceted celebration of Baldwin’s life and work.
The Intersection of Art and Activism
Nelson’s work as an artist and educator deeply influences her creative process. “My role as an artist, as Nina Simone stated, is to reflect the times we live in,” she asserts. In “Frontline Prophet,” Nelson aligns with Baldwin’s discussions on the differences between being a black person in this country and the nature of privilege. She hopes the exhibit will inspire others to engage in conversations about sameness and difference and find solutions to help us all become better people.
A Centennial Celebration
“Frontline Prophet: James Baldwin” is not just an art exhibit; it is a profound exploration of Baldwin’s impact and a call to action. As the exhibition opens at The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, visitors are invited to reflect on Baldwin’s legacy and consider how his words and ideas resonate today. This exhibit is a unique opportunity to experience Baldwin’s influence through Nelson’s powerful, multi-sensory artistic vision.
The exhibit will be available to the public from August 2, 2024, to February 28, 2025. The opening reception on August 2nd from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM promises to be a memorable start to this significant celebration of James Baldwin’s 100th birthday. The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, located at 315 Warren Ave., Detroit, MI 48201, will host this compelling tribute to a literary giant, ensuring Baldwin’s legacy continues to inspire and challenge us all.