The new ‘Joyce J. Scott: Messages’ exhibit makes its debut at Flint Institute of Arts

FLINT, Michigan — On Saturday, July 20, the Flint Institute of Arts (FIA) introduced the new exhibition ‘Joyce J. Scott: Messages‘ celebrating Baltimore-based artist Joyce J. Scott‘s creative use of beads to communicate her activism and sense of social justice. The exhibit is located in FIA’s Harris-Burger Gallery and will be open to the public until December 1, 2024.

According to Sara Kohn, FIA Director and Curator of Collections and Exhibitions, “I hope this exhibition showcases how important this medium is in contemporary art and how one artist can have an incredible impact on culture through their artwork. I hope that this exhibition shows how Scott often uses humor and satire to have difficult conversations about race, gender, politics, and inequality. The objects pull you in with their beauty and may make you chuckle but there is often a very serious underlying context to consider.”

The exhibit of Scott’s artwork pays tribute to her family’s craft traditions and celebrates her African American heritage. Through vibrant colors, humor, and satire, she engages viewers while addressing challenging themes such as racial inequity, violence against women, and politics.

Scott pushes the boundaries of artistic expression not only through her technique but also through the narratives and messages conveyed in her work.

“Visitors can look forward to seeing over 30 works by the artist including numerous necklaces and several sculptures,” said Kohn. “Scott is a master at transforming tiny glass beads into elaborate wearable art and sculpture and the subject matter often reflects issues in contemporary society in an interesting way. She is renowned in the art world for revolutionizing beadwork and fine art.”

Although ‘Messages‘ made its official debut this month, the concept of the exhibit was developed and organized by Mobilia Gallery in Cambridge, Massachusetts, as it worked closely with Scott as well as collectors and museums across the country to bring together an incredible selection of her artwork created since 1979.

“This show offers something for everyone,” said Kohn. “Whether you are interested in the technical aspect of beadwork or just the vibrant colors and interesting patterns, there is an artwork that will capture your attention. Many of her artworks also explore topics that are important to people — things like racial inequity, gender discrimination, and politics.” 

Kohn encourages visitors to explore the themes that Scott expresses in her artwork and consider how they may or may not connect to their own lives.

She anticipates that the exhibit will inspire someone to consider using jewelry in art of their own as ‘Messages’ offers a variety of intricate objects.

Kohn also hopes that visitors will find intriguing pieces that speak to their interests and personal experiences. “While some pieces tackle really heavy subjects, others are lighthearted and playful,” she said. “There is something for everyone in this exhibition. Also, it is the first exhibition in the Harris-Burger Gallery to feature jewelry in a major way.”

For those interested in visiting the new exhibit, the FIA is open 7 days a week, Monday through Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for Genesee County residents, and admission is also free on Saturdays for everyone, thanks to Huntington Bank.

To learn more about the Joyce J. Scott: Messages exhibit and upcoming events at the FIA, visit flintarts.org.