An Artist Talk with sculptor YVONNE SHORTT in association with the QC Art Center’s latest exhibit, ARTISTS FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE 2020, curated by Virginia Mallon.

In response to the current political crises in America, a cadre of diverse and talented artists are launching a year-long cross-country show into the heartland of America, united by the belief that art is and should be a catalyst for change. This timely exhibitions support those who are striving for freedom and resisting oppression.

The art features Donna Bassin’s powerful portraits of resistance from the daily onslaught of obliteration and silences; Marissa Bridge’s mixed media tributes to the children incarcerated at our borders; Barbara Friedman’s delicate landscapes touch upon the fragility and precarious future of our natural world. Additionally, Holly Gordon’s photography captures climate crisis in China. Virginia Mallon’s work addresses refugee and immigrant issues, while fiber artist Dee Mallon focuses on the abandonment of thousands in the aftermath of natural disasters. Australian artist Jessica Waddington’s images spotlight the threat of rising waters and catastrophic fires faced in her homeland. Lydia Makepeace’s work celebrates the long-ignored contributions of women of color, and Beatrice Lebreton comments on women’s contributions to contemporary society. Jessica Nissen explores the human role as conservator and destroyer of the natural world. Maggie Rose’s collages touches upon racial diversity and social justice, while the sculptures of community activist Yvonne Shortt center on equality, race and disability. Photographer and author Susan Saunders uses language and images for her work on immigration and Jonathan Talbot’s work is a commentary on the border wall with Mexico.

The tour remains virtual due to the covid-19 crisis, but has launched digitally at not only at the Kupferberg Center for the Arts at Queens College but also at the Social Distance Festival out of Toronto, Canada. 2021 exhibits include the ARC Gallery & Educational Foundation in Chicago, and to the New Harmony Gallery of Contemporary art from mid-August to October, 2021.

(Click HERE to view exhibit page)