We Contain Multitudes

Curated by M Rudder

June 4 - June 26

Opening Reception on Arts Night Out

I am an artist of intersectional identities, a creative entrepreneur holding space to center and uplift other 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC creatives, and one who experiences the sacred in the natural world. The phrase 'We Contain Multitudes' is one that reflects the interconnected aspects of my life, identity, and lived human experience.

In the Fall of 2024, I felt the tender edges of this phrase pushing and pulling for more space in this world - seeking an opportunity to weave together a reality that could stand in its wholeness in the face of established systems of oppression. This phrase - We Contain Multitudes - is not political - but the identities and the wisdom of those who express this within their work, whether here or in other spaces of culture and art, have been politicized.

And so those tender edges wishing for more space became this invitation to BIPOC and 2SLGBTQIA+ creatives from all genres to share their voices in reflection of this phrase. It was particularly important to me in this process that I reach across the awkward divides of the art world to intentionally include those who may have never shown in a gallery setting, in order to break down the invisible barriers that often segregates within our own community of creatives.

What you will find here in this exhibit are moments of tenderness, vulnerability, honesty and artistry that cultivates connection to oneself, each other, and to the world that we are co-creating in these historic times. Let these works have space within your heart rather than your head. Let these creations unbind you from the -isms that wish to chain you. Let their truths return you to the deep knowing and wisdom of your own multitudes.

M (they/them) is a local creative and entrepreneur who co-founded Yet Another Queer Pop-Up Market, HYPHAE, and Rooted Resilience, and who seeks to create ventures that build economic stability and belonging for the vibrant community of 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC creatives who are often underrepresented in the art world. Their own creative work explores and affirms the multitudes we contain through the lens of the natural world, identity, and the sacred.