On Wednesday, June 3, 2020, The High Museum of Art, Atlanta sent a message of support of protests by featuring a powerful work of art by Arthur Jafa. While this meaningful work was created in 2016, “Love Is The Message, The Message Is Death,” the artist’s work is more relevant now than ever. The attached montage depicts both the power and pain of a century of change, from Jim Crow to Ferguson. The music is Kanye West’s “Ultralight Beam,” sung by Chance the Rapper.
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Here is a message from the High Museum of Art:
For our city and the nation, this moment is distinctly about the fact that black lives matter. Because Atlanta is our city; because it is the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement; and because as your art museum we draw inspiration from the bravery, candor, and commitment of those who have built this community of progress with their actions; we despair at the senseless violence and loss of life that continues to threaten members of the African-American community – indeed, our community.
As an organization, we cannot address or fathom the complexity and challenge of this current moment on our own. We can, however, gain perspective, some measure of understanding, and a sense of purpose by listening to the voices and vision of artists whose work we are proud to have within our collection.
Over the next ten days, join us on Facebook and Instagram as we highlight the artwork of ten artists which poignantly and passionately acknowledges the power of protest, history of oppression, resiliency and hope which defines the experience of being black in the United States of America.
–Rand Suffolk
Nancy and Holcombe T. Green, Jr., Director
