The Kneeling Art Photography is a community social justice art project that explores the meaning and evolution of the Take-A-Knee gesture as Maine photographers record the images of people from diverse communities across Maine. 

 

We have all seen the protests that followed the brutal murder of George Floyd. Untold thousands of people of all races, ages and genders as well as many cultural backgrounds and social classes in numerous cities across America and the world adopted the gesture of getting on one knee.

 

In this project ten Maine photographers capture images of Maine people who work to end racism and secure social justice at local and national levels. Whites, Blacks, people of color, students, business owners, workers, artists, retired persons, physicians, activists, immigrants and LGBTQ people have taken part in the project by taking-a-knee and writing personal statements. These Mainers give voice to communities of Maine people who support this historic struggle. 

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The culmination of the project will include:

1) Five photography exhibitions in 2021, titled The Kneeling Art Photo Exhibit 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

2) Two round tables on protest art and the artist in conflict resolution  

3) Creation of a photography book titled "Taking a Knee for Change" in 2023.

4) Several workshops for teenagers and young adults + Stories telling

5) Maine political institutions

6) Creation of a graphic novel titled "Stand with the Superhero" in 2024/2025

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​Acknowledgments

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We would like to thank the many individuals and groups who have already provided financial, material and spiritual support in phase 1 of this project. Their contributions have allowed us to grow "The Kneeling Art Photography" and to project its solidarity artistic expression to the widest public.
At the same time, we continue to seek resources for phase 2 of this project. Your generous support will allow us to cover the cost of publishing 500 books that will be distributed free of charge to Maine schools in 2024.

 

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