Our Flesh of Flames
Collages by Theodore A. Harris with Captions by Amiri Baraka
Exhibit Opening
The Brecht Forum is proud to exhibit Our Flesh of Flames featuring the collages of Theodore A. Harris and the poetic captions of legendary writer and social activist Amiri Baraka.
Posed against an eerily iridescent orange sky, Harris’ collaged landscapes are filled with urban dystopia. Upside down capitols, distorted bank notes pose the reality of a society fettered by the cash nexus. Images of John Coltrane, Muhammed Ali and Paul Robeson are juxtaposed with protest scenes showing the creative and transformative power of African American social movements.
Controversial critic and poet Amiri Baraka provides lyrical assault through his captions with his trademark humor and biting social commentary. First published as an illustrated poetry broadside in 2008, Our Flesh of Flames is Harris and Baraka’s stunning contribution to African American arts and letters.
Tonight Theodore A. Harris will be in conversation with CUNY Professor Jeremy Glick
A Philadelphia native, Theodore A Harris’ paintings have graced the pages of dozens of publications including AWOL, African American Review and Black Renaissance/ Noir. In addition, Harris has exhibited throughout the country including the University of Pennsylvania and Eye Drum Gallery in Atlanta, GA. Our Flesh of Flames is Harris’ second exhibition at the Brecht Forum.
Amiri Baraka is an Obie award winning playwright and poet. His books include Blues People and a collection of short stories, Tales of the Out and Gone.
OUR SPECIAL THANKS! The Brecht Forum owes its existence to a broad network of support. Our modest fees cover only a fraction of our costs and we rely on the progressive community for our financial survival. Hundreds of valued subscribers and donors provide steady contributions to all of our activities. Our programs are funded in part by Manhattan Neighborhood Network, The Bardon Cole Foundation, The Rosa Luxemburg Foundation, The Surdna Foundation, and by public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.
