Mark McPhail, dean of the College of Arts and Communication, will be exhibiting his photographs in the Crossman Gallery from June 27 - July 14, open weekdays 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. The photographs came about through his travels and experiences in Africa in 2008. The title of the exhibit is, "Omowale: A Son Returns."
McPhail wrote the following artist statement:
Years ago, while working on my doctorate in communication and race relations, I published an essay in a campus newspaper titled "Why Study About Africa." I had, at that time, never visited the continent, but had developed a strong research interest in African art, communication, and culture. Over two decades later that interest led me to two opportunities that inspired this exhibit. In 2008 I traveled to Arusha, Tanzania to serve as an expert witness for the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. The following year, I traveled to Kampala Uganda as a board member for the Uganda American Partnership Organization, an NGO established to create opportunities for Ugandans and Americans to work together toward economic empowerment and spiritual growth. What began as an intellectual interest evolved into an opportunity for creative expression and cultural understanding that I hope is expressed in these images. They reveal my encounter with the people, the life, and the land of my ancestors. The name of the exhibit comes from the Yoruba language: "Omowale" means "a son who has returned home." The inspiration comes from my encounter with one of the security personnel with the United Nations. Driving me to the airport after my time in Tanzania, he asked me if I had been to African before. "This is my first time," I replied. "Well, then," he responded. "It has taken you a long time to come home."
Sara Kuhl
262-472-1194
kuhls@uww.edu