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Art events: Race, violence, gender and identity are explored in three exhibitions

Around this Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend, you'll find three thought provoking exhibitions. Clear out your unwanted art and supplies to donate to the Dunedin fine Art Center.
 
Photo by Marsha Kemp
Marsha Kemp’s photograph Adriana Sparkle is part of the “Roles of Engagement” exhibition at the Morean Arts Center
Photo by Marsha Kemp Marsha Kemp’s photograph Adriana Sparkle is part of the “Roles of Engagement” exhibition at the Morean Arts Center
Published Jan. 16, 2019

Not Forgotten: Steve Locke

Steve Locke is a Boston-based artist whose work explores violence, racism, love, sex and identity. While on sabbatical in 2015, he became struck by how many black men were being killed by the police, and how often that violence is televised. He started to make work that illuminates the long history of depicting violence against black people through a series called Family Pictures, which is part of "The Color of Remembering" show opening at Gallery 221 at HCC's Dale Mabry campus on Tuesday. Locke places these disturbing images in frames inscribed with phrases like "Our Honeymoon" or "Remember this day." Also on display in the exhibit is a painting installation, Three Deliberate Grays for Freddie (A Memorial for Freddie Gray). An opening reception happens from 5-8 p.m. Jan. 24 with a gallery talk with independent curator Camilo Alvarez at 6 p.m. 4001 W Tampa Bay Blvd., Tampa. (813)253-7386.

Identity Check: Morean Exhibitions

The Morean Arts Center has two thought-provoking exhibitions up right now that both address questions of identity. In "Roles of Engagement," seven artists from around the country challenge social and gender "norms." Artists include Marsha Kemp, whose work is pictured; Desiree Moore; and Paul Leroy Gehres, a.k.a. Leroy "King of Art."

Local artist Princess Smith's drawings and paintings in "The Evolution of Self" are narrations, observations and critiques on a perceived black female culture. She addresses body issues, racism, colorism and slavery.

Both exhibits remain on display through Feb. 22. 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. moreanartscenter.org.

Trashy Treasures: Art Donation

The Dunedin Fine Art Center has a cool event each year where it sells donated artwork, supplies and books for low prices. Trashy Treasures doesn't happen until March 9, but the center is currently accepting donations of gently used stuff that's clogging up your house. You know you've been wanting to clear out after watching Marie Kondo's Netflix show. Remember: If it doesn't bring you joy, get rid of it. The DFAC is accepting donations through March 1 from 10 a.m.-5.p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday and 1-4 p.m. Sunday. 1143 Michigan Blvd. dfac.org.