Explore “Finches”, a new interactive exhibit at Gadsden Museum of Art

Fan of the classic American novel To Kill a Mockingbird? You should check out Finches, a new interactive exhibit at the Gadsden Museum of Art (GMA) that uses Harper Lee’s character Atticus Finch to explore the complicated figures—the Finches—in personal and civic life. Read on for details.

About the exhibit

Finches artfully navigates the question, “How do I love a thing I know is flawed?” Whether it be a family member, leader or a place, the project explores the tension that is created when we are conflicted about something we love, and how tensions manifest in the south.

The unique project invites you to navigate that question together as artists, neighbors and citizens. It uses Harper Lee’s narratives to anchor the project, while shining a spotlight on interviews from living Alabamians, including writers John Archibald, Halley M. Cotton and Ashley M. Jones.

One of the fascinating aspects of the exhibit is a 20-minute film with direct-to-camera conversations where individuals reflect on the role of Finches in their own lives through a series of questions. In turn, you’re invited to visit the Finches story booth and immerse yourself in the exhibit by sharing your own point-of-view on what it means to live in relation to someone or something else, even when it’s difficult.

The exhibit integreates sculpture, dance, film and artifacts into a participatory experience. It’s presented on two sides of a partially dividing wall. On one side, a sculpture welcomes you onto an uncanny front porch, where your presence completes a complex constellation of worlds and stories. The other half of the exhibition offers site-specific context and texture.

Finches is presented by Tyler Jones, Fen Kennedy, Todd Slaughter and Melissa Yes, with contributions from a growing community of artists and neighbors.

Visit GMA

Finches will be on display now until the end of August.

• Location: Gadsden Art Museum—515 Broad St, Gadsden, AL 35901
• Hours: Closed Sunday + Monday | Tuesday-Friday 10 AM-5PM | Saturday 11AM-3PM
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

Follow @allthefinches on Instagram for updates on the exhibit.

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