SYDNEY G. JAMES:
GIRL RAISED IN DETROIT

APRIL 14 – SEPTEMBER 10, 2023

Girl Raised in Detroit  is a large-scale solo museum exhibition highlighting the career of artistic visionary Sydney G. James. This exhibition features new works inspired by James’ extensive career as a muralist, clothing designer, cultural organizer, and champion of Detroit. Opening in her hometown and current residence, Girl Raised in Detroit  will premiere two new bodies of work that explore the notion of freedom for Black people, including topics regarding the cultivation of safe space, community care, and protection. Presenting this line of inquiry through large-scale sculptural paintings and installation art, James monumentalizes sources of resilience and perseverance in the wake of trauma. Heralded as one of the region’s prominent portrait artists, Girl Raised in Detroit  pays homage to and redefines the relationship between artist and muse. James works intimately and collaboratively with her family, friends, and contemporaries, shifting, evolving and redefining their relationships.

Girl Raised in Detroit  is organized by the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit in partnership with the International Studio & Curatorial Program. It is presented with lead support from Pensole Lewis HBCU, with additional support from the Kettering Family Foundation and Linda and David Whitaker.

Image: Sydney G. James, The Westside Johnsons, 2022. Acrylic on raw canvas. Courtesy of the artist. Photography by Lamar Landers.