VISIONS AND VOICES OF EMANCIPATION
This exhibit is supported in part by the Department of Architecture at Texas A&M University.
Objective: Successfully raised awareness for establishing an official international Juneteenth museum at the historic site.
Sponsorship: The exhibition was proudly sponsored by the Nia Cultural Center (Juneteenth Legacy Project) in collaboration with Texas A&M’s School of Architecture and Prarie View A&M’s School of Architecture.
Locations: The exhibition occurred on Juneteenth, 2023, simultaneously at the Nia Cultural Center in Galveston, Texas, and the Texas Institute for the Preservation of History and Culture at Prairie View A&M University, and lasted until the fall of 2023.
Innovative Technology: Leveraged extended reality that was easily accessible, especially to those unfamiliar with technology, by focusing on cell phone engagement as the primary tool to trigger event experiences.
Exhibition Details:
Showcased a collection of 54 images, each measuring 20x20.
Featured two distinct short films.
Each image was integrated with QR codes, leading to individual web pages that provided a deep dive into the history of the depicted person, event, and the image itself.
Advanced Restoration:
Employed a combination of Photoshop and artificial intelligence tools to repair and restore damaged sections of photographs.
One of the short films highlighted the meticulous restoration process of previously unseen photographs and film clips of former slaves.
Storytelling Through Film:
The second film vividly narrates the story of Juneteenth. It incorporated AI-generated imagery and other digital elements, was narrated by a renowned celebrity voice, and was endorsed by national leaders.
Overwhelming Support:
The project garnered positive feedback and support from both local and national media outlets.
Notable figures, including celebrities, athletes, and public figures, endorsed and appreciated the project.
The exhibition attracted an impressive footfall, with over 3,000 visitors in just one week.