Over 11 percent of Americans live below the poverty line. More than 20 percent live in “relative poverty,” earning above the official level but not enough to fully support themselves or their families. That means nearly 70 million people in this country live in a state of economic poverty.
“Borne of Necessity,” the new photography exhibit at the Weatherspoon Gallery near Tate St. in Greensboro, focuses on these people and their lives. Ten artists, from Canada, England, Slovenia and the United States, contributed to the exhibition, which will run until April 11.
The exhibit is designed to open people’s eyes and draw attention to the prevalent problem of poverty.
“We’ll be much happier if it causes conversation than if it causes no ripple,” said Weatherspoon director Nancy Doll, “because we’ll know that it’s provoking people to thought.”
Each artist depicts poverty differently.
Tom Hunter takes close-up photographs of impoverished East London residents and their homes. His pictures effectively capture the happiness that can be found even in desperate lives. These people, despite their harsh situations, have surrounded themselves with comfort and hope.
“Poverty can be a state of mind,” first-year Mandy Buck said. “Just because someone is poor doesn’t mean they are unhappy.”
Hunter’s most poignant piece is “Persons Unknown (Woman Reading Possession Order).” Modeled after a painting by Dutch master Johannes Vermeer, this picture shows a young woman reading an eviction notice in the light from her window. A baby lies in the foreground, watching as the mother calmly digests the cruel news.
Photographer Jose Vergara’s art shows a different side of poverty. His “Skid Row, Los Angeles” series shows the harsh reality of life on the street. “SE Corner of 5th and San Pedro” depicts three homeless men hunched against a wall in varying states of despair. Ironically, written above them is part of a mural ad: the words, “Keep Smiling.”
As one moves further into the exhibit, the tone begins to change.
Artist Michael Rakowitz contributed a collection of images and examples of people finding ways to live through their poverty. He worked with an art class at Northwest Guilford high school, giving students disposable cameras to record examples of resourcefulness driven by necessity.
A corkboard hung on one wall comprises another of Rakowitz’s pieces. Below it are pens and pieces of paper for viewers to write about problems they see in Greensboro. Eventually the board will be covered with these personal stories of local problems, as well as possible solutions.
The “Borne of Necessity” exhibit shows the harshness and prevalence of poverty but also the hope that shines through it. This theme is particularly relevant in Greensboro, an area that has lost over 24,000 jobs in the last three years. One leaves the gallery with more respect for this often unseen side of our society and a heart inspired to change it.
“It gave a very real face to poverty,” first-year Erin Burns said.
As part of this exhibit, the Weatherspoon will hold free lectures, discussions, and movie showings in upcoming months. The next movie will be Michael Moore’s “The Big One” on Feb. 12. The gallery is located on the corner of Tate St. and Spring Garden Rd, with free parking in the rear.
The Weatherspoon is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, Thursday 10 am to 9 pm, and 1 to 5 pm on weekends. Call 334 -5770 for more information.