Self(ie) Love

Our identities encompass the memories, experiences, relationships, and values that create our sense of self. They also influence the decisions we make: How we choose friendships, adopt certain fashions, or align ourselves with various beliefs. Radical self-love happens when we choose to view all aspects of our identities as magnificent and our potential limitless.

Self(ie) Love is an exhibition exploring ideas of identity and self-love, showcasing work created by artists ranging from ages 5 to 13. When children are invited to express their identities through art, they are able to reflect on the many factors that contribute to who they are, ultimately celebrating all parts of themselves. Fourth graders explored these concepts by reflecting on various aspects of their identity, creating movable blocks that showcase different sides of who they are. Third graders learned about Chicago artist Nick Cave and his Sound Suits to draw inspiration and learn more about the intersection of art and community. They created a class Sound Suit, taking turns wearing it and using a “power pose” for a photo. When we, the viewer, observe someone else’s story through their artwork, we experience more connection, compassion, and empathy.

“Learning to stand in somebody else’s shoes, to see through their eyes, that’s how peace begins. And it’s up to you to make that happen. Empathy is a quality of character that can change the world.” -Barack Obama.