Sketches from Imprisonment Highlight Provocative, Multi-Media Show
Stirring sketches by the late Nelson Mandela highlight a new exhibit at American Tobacco Campus, Jan. 1-Feb. 26, that also explores parallels between South Africa’s apartheid regime and Jim Crow laws in the United States.
“Mandela: A Long Walk” is a Triangle exclusive, with roots in Durham and Raleigh. The exhibit features work from the art collection of Capitol Broadcasting Company (which owns American Tobacco). Starting in early January, WRAL.com will host an online overview of Mandela’s life, including photos and narrative from “A Long Walk.”
In addition to Mandela’s charcoal and pastel sketches, the exhibit features pieces — some that visitors can physically interact with — exploring the parallels between South Africa’s apartheid regime and life under Jim Crow laws in the US.
Says ATC’s Jesica Averhart: “Our exhibit attempts to honor Mandela’s vision and indefatigable spirit by providing both a look at the man in his place and time as well as relevant experiences right here in the Triangle. In this way, we hope to continue the meaningful conversation that Mandela sparked.”
In his journal, Mandela wrote: “These sketches are not so much about my life as they are about my own country. I drew hands, as they are powerful instruments, hands can hurt or heal, punish or uplift.”
“Mandela: A Long Walk” is the first in a series of diverse events marking the tenth anniversary of American Tobacco’s transformation from historic abandoned factories to a thriving hub of 21st century culture and business.
WHAT: “Mandela: A Long Walk” — Sketches from Mandela’s imprisonment, artifacts of a racially divided past
WHERE: American Tobacco Gallery – Crowe Building, 406 Blackwell Street, Durham
WHEN: January 1 – February 26 (daily, 9am– 6pm)
COST: Free
Thanks to WRAL-TV’s Leesa Moore for this capcom story & to ATC’s Valerie Ward for this capcom graphic.
