The Textures of Us: A Retrospective by Devin Allen
October 25, 2024 – January 11, 2025
Images courtesy the artist and Galerie Myrtis
Opening Reception
October 25, 2024
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Book Signing (RSVP will be required)
November 16, 2024
2:00 – 4:00 pm
Youth Photo Walk & Talk (Registration will be required)
December 7, 2024
2:00 – 4:00 pm (Youth participants only)
4:00 – 6:00 pm (Discussion open to all)
Tea with Myrtis (Ticket required)
January 11, 2025
2:00 – 4:00 pm
“The Textures of Us” is an early retrospective celebrating the release of Allen’s third book, Devin Allen: Baltimore, featuring writings from Salamishah Tillet, D. Watkins, Darnell Moore, and Peter Kunhardt Jr. This exhibition highlights Allen’s impactful photojournalism in Baltimore, capturing a range of scenes from protests against police brutality to moments of tranquility in the lives of Black citizens.
The exhibit encompasses a diverse collection of works from the past decade of Allen’s career, showcasing excerpts from his forthcoming book, along with previously unreleased images, video collages, and works from his mentees.
Baltimore native Devin Allen is an acclaimed photographer and author who captures the richness and struggles of African American life. His powerful images offer a nuanced portrayal of Black life in Baltimore and advocate for social equity by documenting civil demonstrations.
A key aspect of Allen’s work is his documentation of national protests against police brutality. He first gained recognition for his coverage of the Baltimore Uprising following the death of Freddie Gray in 2015. His photographs were featured on the cover of Time Magazine in both 2015 and 2020, making him the third amateur photographer in history to receive this honor. Allen’s commitment to social justice has also been acknowledged through Gordon Parks Foundation Fellowships in 2017 and 2023. His photos from these protests and Baltimore inspired his books A Beautiful Ghetto and No Justice, No Peace: From the Civil Rights Movement to Black Lives Matter.
Book Signing & Discussion
Join Devin Allen and award-winning writer D. Watkins will explore the themes of the book Devin Allen: Baltimore and discuss the stories behind the featured images. Guests will have the opportunity to purchase copies of Allen’s book. This free event requires registration as seating is limited. Check back for RSVP details.
November 16, 2024
2:00 – 4:00 pm
Youth Photo Walk & Talk
Experience a Youth Photo Walk & Talk, led by Devin Allen and his mentees, in collaboration with Wide Angle Youth Media.
The youth photo walk is exclusive to participants under 18. The discussion, open to guests of all ages, will showcase the work of Allen’s mentees, highlighting the importance of fostering new generations of artists. Capacity is limited for this free program. Check back for registration details.
December 7, 2024
2:00 – 4:00 pm (Youth participants only)
4:00 – 6:00 pm (Discussion open to all)
Tea with Myrtis
Join us for Tea with Myrtis, an intimate conversation between Devin Allen and Dr. Myrtis Bedolla. During this special event, Allen will share the stories and inspirations behind his forthcoming book, Devin Allen: Baltimore, while providing insight into his creative process.
Tea with Myrtis is an art salon series that engages artists, collectors, and arts professionals in conversations about trends in contemporary art. This is a ticketed event with limited seating. Registration opens December 11th.
January 11, 2025
2:00 – 4:00 pm