Description
Book Synopsis: An archival dive with fresh interpretations of the legendary New York gallery and cultural laboratory that catalyzed collaboration among Black artists and their counterparts of diverse backgroundsJust Above Midtown, or JAM, was an art gallery and self-described laboratory for experimentation led by Linda Goode Bryant that foregrounded African American artists and artists of color. Open from 1974 to 1986, it was a place where an expansive idea of contemporary art flourished and debate was cultivated. The gallery offered early opportunities for artists recognized as pivotal figures in late-20th-century art―including David Hammons, Butch Morris, Senga Nengudi, Lorraine O’Grady and Howardena Pindell―as well as a nonhierarchical approach to art that welcomed artists without stylistic proscription.
Published in conjunction with the first museum exhibition to focus on this visionary gallery and its ongoing impact, Just Above Midtown: Changing Spaces showcases rarely seen material from JAM’s history―artworks, ephemera and photographs―that collectively document the gallery’s communal and programmatic activities. This richly illustrated, jacketed paperback catalog includes essays that contextualize JAM and consider its legacy, a conversation between Goode Bryant and Thelma Golden, Director and Chief Curator of the Studio Museum in Harlem, a complete exhibition chronology written by MoMA and Studio Museum staff with nearly 50 annotated entries, and excerpts from oral histories with JAM staff and artists conducted especially for this project.
“I walked in and I was like, Yes! And I remember thinking, ‘I don’t care if I never show there, I’m so glad to know it exists.’ It was like it gave my brain another dimension. I had something to look to.” –Janet Olivia Henry, JAM volunteer and artist”
“JAM has always been like a snowball on a hill, always gaining momentum. I’m still connected with all the things that happened there. Just Above Midtown—as much as it is a physical entity, it’s also a spiritual entity. It has never not been a part of my thinking as an artist, or a part of my life as an artist, or a part of my momentum as an artist.” –Randy Williams, artist and educator
Details
Discover the untold story of Just Above Midtown: Changing Spaces, the legendary New York gallery that revolutionized the art scene. Immerse yourself in an archival dive that showcases fresh interpretations of this cultural laboratory, known for catalyzing collaboration among Black artists and their peers of diverse backgrounds. Explore a world where contemporary art flourished, and debate was cultivated, thanks to the visionary leadership of Linda Goode Bryant. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of history in the making!
Experience the groundbreaking artistic movement that unfolded at Just Above Midtown. From 1974 to 1986, this avant-garde art gallery provided early opportunities for influential artists such as David Hammons, Butch Morris, Senga Nengudi, Lorraine O’Grady, and Howardena Pindell. Its nonhierarchical approach to art welcomed artists without stylistic proscription, creating a space where creativity knew no bounds. Now, for the first time, Just Above Midtown: Changing Spaces brings together rarely seen material, including artworks, ephemera, and photographs, allowing you to delve into the gallery's vibrant history.
Just Above Midtown: Changing Spaces is more than just a catalog. It's a comprehensive journey that explores the gallery's communal and programmatic activities. Immerse yourself in a richly illustrated, jacketed paperback that features essays contextualizing Just Above Midtown and reflecting on its enduring impact. Engage in a conversation between Linda Goode Bryant and Thelma Golden, Director and Chief Curator of the Studio Museum in Harlem. Delve into an exhibition chronology meticulously crafted by MoMA and Studio Museum staff. Plus, gain exclusive access to excerpts from oral histories with JAM staff and artists, conducted exclusively for this project. This is a must-have for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Join the countless individuals who were inspired by Just Above Midtown. Experience the transformative power it had on artists' lives and careers. Through the words of Janet Olivia Henry, a JAM volunteer and artist, you'll understand why this art gallery became a beacon of hope and creativity: "I don’t care if I never show there, I’m so glad to know it exists. It gave my brain another dimension." Artist and educator Randy Williams encapsulates the profound impact of Just Above Midtown, stating, "Just Above Midtown―as much as it is a physical entity, it’s also a spiritual entity. It has never not been a part of my thinking as an artist, or a part of my life as an artist, or a part of my momentum as an artist." Embrace this opportunity to be part of this legacy by ordering your copy of Just Above Midtown: Changing Spaces now!
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