ArtRage Gallery
505 Hawley Ave., Syracuse

In some traditional and legendary African and African-American belief systems, a Center of the Crossroads represents the rising and setting of the sun, and the human life cycle of death and rebirth. The center of a crossroads is where communications with spirits takes place.

"In The Center of The Crossroads" speaks from the center of the crossroads where our African and African American community reaches through time and space, confronts memory and future, communes with the Ancestors and future generations in this race for survival on a dying planet. The exhibition tells the story of the African American historical relationship with Mother Earth and the challenges we face addressing Environmental Racism and Climate Justice.

Vanessa Johnson is a Griot, a storyteller in the West African tradition. She is a quilter, mixed media fiber artist, community educator, museum consultant, activist, writer, playwright, actor, and vocalist.

ArtRage Gallery
505 Hawley Ave., Syracuse

"Life/Afterlife ... Do you have a plan?" delves into the profound psychological toll religious dogma can have on mental health and spotlights two women who bravely navigated a journey through religious indoctrination, survived its challenges, and now speak up about the damages they endured, ultimately thriving despite the adversity.

Through evocative artwork and stirring narratives, "Life/Afterlife" confronts the toxicity of religious orthodoxy and sheds light on the struggles of breaking free from rigid belief systems. Viewers will be inspired to reflect on their own beliefs and challenge societal norms as they experience the transformative power of rebellion and resilience.