Black History Month is almost upon us! Why not celebrate by checking out an engaging and thought-provoking new work at the Frances Tang Teaching Museum that celebrates 20th-century black music and poetry.
Artist Ephraim Asili’s “Jazz Salt” incorporates a number of audio recordings, found objects, and more, and visitors will be able to take part of the exciting work home with them.
About the Installation & Artist
Jazz Salt is the 35th version of the museum’s Elevator Music series, which began in 2004, and invites artists to create sound-based installations.
This unique work from Asili includes audio from poets like Sonia Sanchez and Maya Angelou, black US soldiers interviewed in Vietnam, music by jazz saxophonist Hamiet Bluiett, and much more.
In addition to the audio aspect, the installation also includes found objects like milk crates repurposed as furniture and a book with reproductions of Asili’s own drawings. The book offers a visual and textual complement to the audio.
The artist behind Jazz Salt, Ephraim Asili, is a filmmaker, multimedia artist, DJ, radio host, and educator. His films have been shown at festivals worldwide.
Jazz Salt is on view now through May 20th.
Books & Cassettes Available
Limited-edition books and cassettes with the elevator’s track will be available to visitors to take home. Donations can be placed in a coffee tin that will be at the installation in exchange for the books and cassettes.
About the Tang
The Tang Museum is a part of Skidmore College. The museum is dedicated to educating the community on the richness and diversity of the human experience through art.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 12pm to 5pm, with extended hours until 9pm on Thursdays. Admission is free with a small donation suggested.
