Dittmar exhibition examines Blackness and belonging in America

Karé Williams explores the relationship between Black identity and Americanism in his exhibition, “Dancing in the Rain,” on view at the Dittmar Gallery from Jan. 29 through March 4.

The exhibition is structured into three conceptual acts: “The Motive,” “The Dance” and “The Rain/Cleansing.” The first act reveals Williams’ motive behind the exhibition: the tension between America and people of color. In the first act, Williams highlights the resilience that persists despite the tension. The final act reclaims rain as a symbol of renewal and healing in African cosmologies, washing away “The Motive.” Each act is centered on the historical and societal forces that shape Black existence in America, from systemic violence and oppression to triumph.

At the center of the exhibition is the guiding question: “What does it mean to be Black in America?” Williams does not inquire into Black identity itself but rather examines how Black identity is formed and sustained in the American context. As Williams grapples with this question through the exhibition, he explores how adversity can be turned into positivity. Drawing heavily from his lived experiences, Williams’ exhibition invites discussion about race and belonging. 

The Dittmar Gallery is located on the first floor of the Norris University Center at 1999 Campus Drive, Evanston.

Senior Elisa Huang is a media relations aide in the Office of Global Marketing and Communications.