She Tells Me

About

On View: August 7th - August 31st, 2017Opening 
Reception: Saturday, August 12th 6-9pm
Disclaimer Gallery at The Silent Barn 
603 Bushwick Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11206

"For years natural hair, braids, anything outside of the ‘normal’ straight hair has been frowned upon. Features of black women were never seen as a privilege or advantage, we were constantly fighting to look like the blonde hair, blued eyed girl next to us. Society has always shamed black women for certain qualities then go and steal these things and then receive praise for being a trendsetter. I want to reclaim what is rightfully ours, our God given beauty. I want to empower those who feel like they’re voices aren’t being heard. Give black women a platform to stand on to know they are beautiful, powerful, and have even more to embody than just their looks.” 

Through her installations, sculptures, photography, video, and embroidery, Francena creates an interactive atmosphere for the viewers allowing those to connect to one’s experience.

Francena Ottley is a New York based photographer, installation artist, and poet. She is currently working on her BFA in Photography and Video at School of Visual Arts. Some of her previous exhibitions include the Whitney Houston Biennial at Chashama, Genius Loves Company at the Art Gallery of Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Building, and the Juried Exhibition at SVA Flatiron Gallery. She’s also been published several times in SVA Visual Opinion and recently been featured on Hyperallergic, Village Voice, Chocolate Informed, and Stylehub NG.
Instagram @lebleuart
Website: ottley9.wix.com/cenagraphy