Chicago teens share views on city life at the Field Museum
Hear young Chicagoans' views on pressing issues of city life in the provocative exhibition Urban Expressions: Young Voice, New Technologies. This exhibition features nearly a dozen videos produced entirely by Chicago's urban youth addressing issues like gentrification, urbanism, racism, and community. The exhibition continues through Jan. 17, 2005, at the Field Museum.
Since 1995, Street-Level Youth Media, a non-profit arts organization, has been providing Chicago's youth with new opportunities for self-expression. This Chicago-based group has put the latest media arts technology in the hands of urban youth, encouraging them to speak out on contemporary hot topics using video production, animation, and computer arts. Street-Level, a nationally recognized organization, works with 1,500 students from 15 local middle and high schools.
Participants in the program come from predominantly low-income, minority backgrounds. These young Chicagoans—a demographic historically neglected by policy makers and the mass media—use these new technologies as tools for self-expression, social change, and education.
The exhibition presents a rotating series of original videos by Street-Level's young participants addressing issues of identity, conflict, culture, place, creativity, and community. An arresting blend of animation, live action, and Claymation, these videos highlight the diversity and talent of these young artists. Also featured will be information on Street-Level's powerful Peace Signs Project billboard campaign against gun violence. Visitors will see a nearly full-scale reproduction of one of the campaign's impressive billboards.
The exhibition is free with basic Museum admission. Basic admission is $10 adults, $5 children 3-11, $7 seniors and students with ID (discounts available for Chicago residents, free for educators and military personnel). The Field Museum is located at 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. The Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last tickets sold at 4 p.m.) For more information, call (312) 922-9410 or visit fieldmuseum.org. |
