DeepSummary
The episode begins with the host, Major Jackson, introducing the concept of ekphrasis, which refers to poems that engage with works of art. He explains that this week's episodes will explore ekphrastic poems, which not only describe art but also tap into the deeper questions and experiences that the artworks evoke.
Jackson then delves into the life and work of Edmonia Lewis, an African American and Native American sculptor who faced significant adversity but persevered to become an internationally renowned artist in the 19th century. He recounts her experience of being falsely accused of poisoning her white classmates at Oberlin College and the subsequent violence and injustice she faced, which ultimately led to her expulsion.
Despite these challenges, Lewis pursued her passion for sculpture, relocating to Boston and eventually Rome, where she created works that celebrated themes of freedom and challenged stereotypes about indigenous and Black people. Jackson highlights the significance of her sculptures, such as busts of notable figures like William Lloyd Garrison and John Brown, and her famous work 'Cleopatra' exhibited at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Ekphrastic poetry engages with and responds to works of art, tapping into deeper questions and experiences evoked by the artworks.
- Edmonia Lewis, an African American and Native American sculptor, overcame significant adversity, including discrimination and violence, to pursue her artistic passion and become an internationally renowned artist in the 19th century.
- Lewis's sculptures, such as busts of notable figures like William Lloyd Garrison and John Brown, and her famous work 'Cleopatra,' celebrated themes of freedom and challenged stereotypes about Indigenous and Black people.
- The episode highlights the importance of understanding an artist's personal journey and the societal context in which they create, as these factors often shape and inform their artistic expression.
- Ekphrastic poetry can create a profound connection between the viewer/reader and the artwork, personifying and bringing the artwork to life through poetic language and imagery.
- Art institutions and museums play a crucial role in preserving, sharing, and supporting the work of artists, allowing their stories and creations to be appreciated and understood by future generations.
- The episode celebrates the power of art and poetry to challenge societal biases, stereotypes, and injustices, and to inspire discussions about freedom, identity, and human experiences.
- The life and work of Edmonia Lewis serve as a powerful example of resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of artistic expression in the face of adversity.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “Her works centered around themes of freedom. She made busts of garrison himself, John Brown, and Colonel Robert Goldshaw.“ by Major Jackson
- “When she exhibited her sculpture of Cleopatra at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition, she became the world's first noted african american and native sculptor of international renown.“ by Major Jackson
- “Though she faded into history, she gifted the world works that challenged stereotypes of indigenous and black people as devoid of imagination.“ by Major Jackson
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Episode Information
The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily
American Public Media
5/30/24
Today’s poem is Hagar in the Wilderness by Tyehimba Jess.
The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Major writes… “This week’s episodes are a special feature on ekphrasis – poems which engage with works of art. Today’s poet pays homage to an artist who, with her own hands, made art out of heroic, mythical, and biblical figures, whose visions were worthy of the substance of stone.”
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