Buffalo AKG Art Museum Hosts Exhibition Commemorating 2022 Mass Shooting
On May 14, 2022, a mass shooting occurred at a Tops Friendly Markets store in Buffalo, New York, resulting in 10 fatalities and three injuries. This tragic event significantly impacted Buffalo's predominantly Black East Side neighborhood.
In response, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, previously known as the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, organized an exhibit named "Before and After Again" to honor the victims. The exhibit was curated by Aaron Ott, the museum's public art curator, and involves contributions from local artists Julia Bottoms, Tiffany Gaines, and poet laureate Jillian Hanesworth.
The artists collaborated closely with the victims' families and the East Side community for 15 months, conducting numerous interviews to gather personal stories and memories. The exhibit, which opened earlier this year and runs until September 30, 2024, features art forms like poetry, prose, and paintings. It aims to encourage visitors to remember the victims and engage in discussions about change and community healing.
The exhibition also addresses broader socio-economic issues such as segregation and systemic inequities in Buffalo, which have been exacerbated by historic redlining practices. Through their works, the artists hope to highlight and challenge these ongoing issues within the community.
The Buffalo AKG Art Museum continues to host events, such as open-mic nights and panel discussions, to foster ongoing dialogue and engagement around the themes of the exhibition.