The Hudson River Museum is proudly showcasing two groundbreaking exhibitions that celebrate the achievements of Black and Brown artists and musicians while honoring the vibrant cultural history of Yonkers and its neighboring communities.
Kindred Worlds
“Kindred Worlds: The Priscila and Alvin Hudgins Collection” is a remarkable journey into the private collection of Priscila and Alvin Hudgins III. For the first time, these cultivated contemporary artworks show as a collection to the public.
The Hudgins family’s devotion to art shines in their friendships with many of the featured artists, some of whom have included images of Hudgins family members in their works. The Hudgins describe their collection as “deeply personal and intuitive.” And they express their hope that future generations will have the opportunity to enjoy these magnificent works and inspire others to become collectors.
The exhibition explores themes of myth and memory, with artists such as Bony Ramirez, Laurena Finéus, and Naudline Pierre. These artists reinterpret classical techniques to create otherworldly renditions of femininity, Blackness, and migration. Some artists experiment with unconventional materials, including coffee beans, cotton, and grease, to evoke the history of oppression and resilience.
Alyssa Alexander, Independent Curator and Arts Administrator, and Karintha Lowe, HRM’s Mellon Public Humanities Fellow, co-curate this exhibition.
“Kindred Worlds” also offers intimate vignettes that draw inspiration from childhood memories, ethnographies, and family photographs. Artists like Jordan Casteel and Raelis Vasquez translate personal experiences into breathtaking art.
Hip Hop Heroes
The second exhibition, “Hip Hop Heroes,” commemorates fifty years of Hip Hop culture. It pays homage to the pioneers and enthusiasts who contributed to its global phenomenon. The show features art and artifacts from community members in Yonkers, the Bronx, and Mount Vernon. Thus, emphasizing these cities’ role in the birth and growth of the musical genre.
The exhibition offers a comprehensive look at Hip Hop’s four primary elements: DJing, MCing, breakdancing, and graffiti. Graffiti artists, muralists, and comic book artists explore how this culture has been portrayed through visual arts.
Curated by Yonkers-based artist Evan Bishop and Karintha Lowe, HRM’s Mellon Public Humanities Fellow, “Hip Hop Heroes” highlights the interconnectedness between Hip Hop culture and social issues. The exhibit features original works created during Bishop’s workshop series, alongside a documentary about the project.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to participate in art workshops, where they can create their own Hip Hop heroes. This interactive element invites diverse audiences to engage with the culture and possibly see their work included in the exhibition.
“Kindred Worlds: The Priscila and Alvin Hudgins Collection” and “Hip Hop Heroes” are made possible by the support of the County of Westchester, Sarah Lawrence College, and many other contributors. The Hudson River Museum invites everyone to join them in celebrating the excellence and community that these exhibitions represent.
