this is NOT a safe space

About

“Last fall, young people gathered in protest at dozens of universities across the country. Students spoke about feeling unwelcome or invisible, of being stereotyped, slighted, excluded, and harassed. One deceptively simple phrase, derided or endorsed, seemed to crystallize what was at stake: “safe space.” The expression — which dates to the Sixties and was originally associated with consciousness-raising groups in the women’s movement — has been used to describe places in which members of historically persecuted groups can enjoy a reprieve from the hierarchies of the world at large and discuss their experiences without fear of censure.”  — Harpers Magazine, March 2016

A+E Studios, in collaboration with JARS, is pleased to announce, This is not a Safe Space, a group exhibition opening June 16th from 6-9pm featuring the works of 16 contemporary artists providing sharp and clear satirical commentary that takes the idiocy of our generation head on. The show title references the “safe space” epidemic sweeping American universities, and stands in opposition to the notion that we should prioritize individual feelings over the free exchange of knowledge and ideas. As the most socially progressive American generation to date we collectively struggle with the inherent duality between learned notions of inclusiveness and that of rational thought as the best tool for understanding reality.  It is through this lens that we hope to provide the cognitive and emotional fuel that will inspire people to think critically and rationally about the difficult changes facing America today.

Nobody likes to be preached to, we prefer to be leveled with and made laugh. Though couched in political commentary, This is Not a Safe Space, is filled with elicit, imaginative renderings of vibrant worlds we recognize but have never seen —one of bold colors, imaginative shapes, and gestural graphics—providing a whimsical absurdity to serious subjects. The works on display are at liberty to indulge their enthusiasms without apology or embarrassment, with a spoonful of sarcasm to help get it all down.

* May contain viewpoints or ideas that do not confirm your personal beliefs, which might make you feel weird.