Encounters with Grief is a journey from shock to healing. Myleka Bevans outlines the initial first stages of grief and community response. In this space, viewers are confronted with rituals typical of western grief practices; cards, flowers, words of encouragement, and stuffed animals.
Regarding the inspiration for the gallery, Bevans said, “I remember being surrounded by massive amounts of flowers when my daughter died. I was comforted by these objects because I knew the intention and pain behind every arrangement that showed up at my door. Behind each object was a person who was hurting as well, but was trying to respect my grief.
“I began to see the small gifts and cards that showed up at my house as a club initiation. Each object was from a person who knew pain and was welcoming me into the deeper and darker aspects of life. I had entered into a part of life that allowed for emotions to be deeper, connections to be more precious and life to be richer. It was dark and horrible but it was a part of life that we all one day will experience.”
Gallery Details:
Dates and Times: September 28- October 8 | 6 a.m.-11 p.m.
Location: Gallery 303
