On Wednesday, November 9, Sarah Lawrence held an opening reception for FINAL DAYS, which is on display at the College’s Esther Raushenbush Library through December 16. The reception welcomed members of the Yonkers and Westchester community alongside Sarah Lawrence students, faculty, and staff to meet visual artist, activist, author, educator and SLC Alumna, Dr. Hasna Muhammad ‘77. New Rochelle Councilmember Yadira Ramos Herbert presented Muhammad with a centennial citation honoring her familial contributions to the city.
Supported through the Mellon Foundation and the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, FINAL DAYS presents multiple works in a range of media including photography, archival artifacts and a soundtrack with multiple interviews, music, and sound. The exhibit creates a private healing space and a public tribute to the legacies of Muhammad’s parents, Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee, as well as other family members, friends, and loved ones. Dr. Muhammad created photographs of the final days of her cousins, Donald L. Miller and Karen Fletcher; her father-in-law, Pearlee Saunders, her father-friend, Dr. Beny Primm; her friend, Sara Myers; and her parents’ friends, Max Roach, Clement Cumberbatch, and Sir Sidney Poitier. Presenting never-seen-before images to the public, FINAL DAYS shares personal, ceremonial, and farewell rituals.
Curated by Kishauna Soljour, she states, “this exhibit explores the delicate boundary between public and private life. Dr. Hasna Muhammad has captured the immorality of family members, friends, and loved ones. The photographs created for this exhibition reveal the deep legacies of sacrifice, love and community."
Guests are welcome to explore the FINAL DAYS exhibit in the Esther Raushenbush library during regular hours.
