The Hampton Project. Weems explores issues of race, education, and assimilation through a critical, multi-media investigation of the Hampton Institute and its methods of instruction for African American and Native American pupils at the turn of the twentieth century.
This compelling new exhibition
features a recent body of work
by Carrie Mae Weems, an artist
renowned for her critical and
oftentimes controversial
projects. With The Hampton
Project, Weems explores issues
of race, education, and
assimilation through a critical, multi-media investigation of
the Hampton Institute (now Hampton University) and its
methods of instruction for African American and Native
American pupils at the turn of the twentieth century.
The installation is comprised of large hanging scrims,
original and historical photographs and reproductions, and
lyrical audio recordings. Images from The Hampton Album,
rare, original photographs by Frances Benjamin Johnston
(1864-1952) - one of the earliest female pioneers in the
field of photography - are also included. The exhibition,
organized by Williams College Museum of Art, was originally
scheduled to appear at Hampton University, but its run at
that venue was cancelled when the University took
exception to Weems’ interpretation of Hampton’s history
and ideals.
The UAM presentation of The Hampton Project will be the
only West Coast appearance of this important exhibition.
On view through April 21, the show coincides with both
Black History Month and Women’s History Month, making
the resoundingly poignant material all the more topical.
Several events are planned to compliment the exhibition,
including special lectures and musical performances.
For more information on any of our programs, please call (562) 985-5761 or email