Art

International African American Museum’s Special Exhibition with Work by Fletcher Williams III Focuses on the South

Published

1 year ago

September 18, 2023

The International African American Museum (IAAM) will host an opening reception for a special exhibition by Fletcher Williams III: “When It Rains It Shines.” The opening reception, originally planned for August 30th, has been rescheduled, and there are new opportunities for interested individuals to register for what was a sold-out event. There will be light refreshments and an opportunity to mingle with Fletcher Williams III.

Fletcher Williams III is a multi-disciplinary artist from Charleston. His work has been featured in multiple group shows and solo exhibitions throughout the country. His conceptual art-making practice is rooted in Southern vernacular.

In “When It Rains It Shines,” Williams constructs a labyrinth of personal memories, rituals, and sacred hideaways using sculpture, sound, and light. It is both a dreamscape and a psychedelic vision of what it is to be in and of the South. Both “disorienting and inviting” the immersive installation offers visitors an opportunity to interact with the South in new, thought-provoking ways.

At a later date, Williams will discuss his journey and the myriad personal and cultural landscapes that inform his first solo museum exhibition, which is on display through December 3rd, 2023. Williams will be in conversation with Chase Quinn, an award-winning journalist, art critic, and curator.

The opening reception will be held on Wednesday, September 27th, with self-guided open tours beginning at 7 pm and lasting until 9 pm. The artist talk will be held on October 11th, 2023, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

The public is invited to attend the artist talk and the opening reception, but space is limited for both events. Individuals interested in the artist talk can register here or at iaamuseum.org/events, while individuals interested in attending the opening reception can register here or at iaamuseum.org/events.

Individuals who are not able to register for either of these events can purchase tickets to tour the museum during regular hours. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm. The exhibition will be available for viewing until December 3rd.

The International African American Museum (IAAM) is located at 14 Wharfside Street.