Back in the Dayz is the third annual Black History Month exhibition organized by the Cleveland Institute of Art's Black Scholars and Artists students. The exhibition will showcase a series of artworks that respond to the theme of “nostalgia” and what that looks like through the memories of Black personhood.

Back in the Dayz will open from 5 to 8pm Friday, February 7 in CIA's Ann and Norman Roulet Student + Alumni Gallery and the Mary Ann and Jack Katzenmeyer Student Lounge. The show will remain on view through Friday, February 28.

Artist Statement
For Black Scholars and Artists (BSA), nostalgia is the threshold of both the little things and developmental turning points. Black family relationships and gatherings, our mental and physical environment, musical influences, the era of Black nationality juxtaposed with our origin, as well as emotional and intellectual intensity are factors that will become visible throughout the exhibition space. This Black History Month display allows the BSA to show their creative, poetic skills and turn the audience’s attention to the art of individualizing and humanizing Black folk through developmental stories. When we think “Back in the Dayz,” we go back to our roots and what makes us who we are.

Following the reception: The Cinematheque—in partnership with Black Scholars and Artists and in conjunction with Back in the Dayz—will screen This World is Not My Own. The screening takes place at 9:30pm Friday, February 7. Attend the Back in the Dayz opening reception, then see the film!

Sponsors

Reinberger Gallery programming is supported in part by the residents of Cuyahoga County, through a public grant from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture. Our exhibitions are also generously supported by CIA's Community Partners.