Down These Mean Streets: Community and Place in Urban Photography

In early March our group had the privilege of having a behind-the-scenes tour of an exhibit in the last stages of preparation for display. That exhibit, Down These Mean Streets: Community and Place in Urban Photography, at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, opened on May 12, 2017. Our Fellows were invited to a special preview reception on May 11, an event much enjoyed by those who attended.

The evening began with a guided tour to the exhibit led by Dr. E Carmen Ramos, Curator of Latino Art, who organized the exhibit (and had provided our tour in March). The exhibit focuses on events occurring in the post-World War II era. During this period population centers throughout the country moved from urban to suburban areas. Additionally, in many places new highways created isolated outposts where once vibrant neighborhoods had flourished. Basic services dwindled. Photographers who had deep connections to these urban places, captured the changes. The exhibit includes 93 images, and features the work of ten photographers: Manuel Acevedo, Oscar Castillo, Frank Espada, Anthony Hernandez, Perla de Leon (who was present and shared some insights on her work!), Hiram Maristany, Ruben Ochoa, John Valadez, Winston Vargas and Camilo Jose Vergara. It is a wonderful exhibit, and those who were not able to attend the preview reception, are encouraged to visit.

Following the tour, visitors were free to join the reception in the Museum’s Atrium, and enjoy food, drink and music themed to reflect the fact that many of the pieces in the exhibit represent new acquisitions by Latino artists. A number of curators who have worked with the SFF were there, providing an opportunity to renew friendships.

The exhibit runs until August 6, 2017. A more complete description of the exhibit can be found on the Museum’s website: http://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/archive/2017/streets/.