Reflections

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I debated many things and their inclusion within the piece. In many ways, I view this piece as an uncompleted work. I want to include present-day interviews. With Covid and my cautiousness, I decided to strictly tie archival footage to represent the past, use the tool of documentary to represent the present, and the tools of AR/VR to represent the future. In representing the past and future, I want to showcase current Black WomXn who are currently on the frontlines of liberation. 

In wanting to honor Black WomXn, I wanted this installation to also be on commentary on things that we as a society have accepted. I am not perfect and I am still unlearning the behaviors attributed to white patriarchy. 

I also debated back and forth whether in adding in Reverend Alber George, Jr.’s voice and face in the scene of the Shrine of Black Madonna. In a work dedicated only to that of Black WomXn, why is there a mXn included? Why must a mXn speak for a womXn? Especially a Black WomXn. It prioritizes and reiterates that regardless, a mXn’s voice is more powerful. It states that a mXn must explain the actions of a Black WomXn that is more palatable to the general public. The feature of highlighting Black WOmxn, but only for the day is also reiterated. A one-day dedication to womXn named “WomXn’s Day” with a one-day television special dedicated to us limits our history rather than incorporating it. We are still “othered” and seen through a scope with broken lens. As I reflect back on my work, with more timing, I would have placed a black circle over his face and robotized his voice.