New Voices is collaborative exhibit between high school students and veterans
CINCINNATI – The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, in partnership with FotoFocus, is proud to announce the opening of the inspiring new exhibit New Voices. This collaborative exhibit asks the true cost of freedom and shares the experiences of American veterans. New Voices will be open through December 14.
The many episodes of military engagement involving American troops over the past 50 years has led to a legion of veterans re-entering society with a variety of issues to overcome, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Veterans often struggle with their memories and experiences, finding it difficult to articulate or share them with others who might be able to help them heal. Students from the School of Creative and Performing Arts helped them find a way to overcome their struggles.
“Speaking with these students was an important first step in these brave men and women healing,” says Clarence G. Newsome, PhD, president of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. “These are the selfless individuals who defend the freedom and liberty of people all around the world and we are honored to share their stories and celebrate their service in this powerful new exhibit.”
During the fall of 2013, students produced a photography and writing project in collaboration with veterans struggling with PTSD currently living at Joseph House, a Cincinnati agency that provides services for dependent veterans. The result was a collection of graphic novels, produced with brilliant and vivid imagery and poignant stories of recovery. Many images for the novels were also shot in the historic Over-the-Rhine area surrounding Joseph House.
The incredible work produced by students from the School of Creative and Performing Arts and the brave veterans of our military is on display in New Voices through December 14. The exhibit is located in the Education Hallway on the third floor of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. For more information visit www.freedomcenter.org.
And don’t miss two inspiring photo exhibits celebrating the life and work of Nelson Mandela, one of the world’s most important civil rights leaders.
Senzeni Na? is a selection of photographs from Mandela! Struggle and Triumph by Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist David Turnley. Turnley spent a quarter-century documenting the struggle to end apartheid in South Africa, chronicling the life of Nelson Mandela in the process.
Mandela: A Living Legacy presents the photographs of photojournalist Matthew Willman. Willman had the great honor of capturing many of Mandela’s personal and intimate moments for the last nine years of Mandela’s life. A collection of 20 of Willman’s photographs is presented in this exhibit that celebrates the legacy of Mandela as a leader and as a human being.
Senzeni Na? and Mandela: A Living Legacy are open through October 19 at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.