Gordon Parks’s iconic photograph, “Radio Technicians’ Class, Daytona Beach, Florida” (1943), captures a moment in time where students are engrossed in their studies, headphones on, books open, and eyes fixed on their professor. This image is part of a series Parks created while working for the Farm Security Administration and later the Office of War Information after receiving a Julius Rosenwald Fellowship. His goal was to use the camera to expose the injustices of racism, poverty, discrimination, and bigotry by showcasing those who were most affected by these societal ills.
The photograph is just one of the many thought-provoking pieces featured in the expansive exhibition “On Education” at Amant. This exhibition delves into the complexities and cruelties of the education system, shedding light on the experiences of those who have endured its hardships. While the intention of the exhibition is not solely to condemn the system, it aims to explore its violence and propose alternative educational models through artistic expression.
One striking piece in the exhibition is Philip Wiegard’s “Lost Boys” (2025), a handcrafted wallpaper created in collaboration with students from Lyons Community School. The vibrant design, made using traditional Baroque techniques, raises questions about the intersection of labor, education, and art. The students, paid to learn these age-old techniques, added their personal touches to the intricate wallpaper, showcasing their newfound skills.
Another standout work is Susan Traditional Woman Hudson’s “Thank You My Grandmas and My Grandpas” (2020), a poignant quilt that pays homage to the artist’s Native American ancestors who suffered in state-mandated boarding schools. The quilt features images of women and girls across generations, each holding a chalkboard detailing the hardships they endured and the importance of education. Through this powerful piece, Hudson explores the legacy of trauma and resilience passed down through generations.
The exhibition also features works that address the trauma and abuse experienced within the family and school systems. Artists like Stefan Tcherepnin and Michela Griffo use their art to confront the horrors of childhood and the lasting impact of abuse. Cristine Brache’s “My Porcelain Hat” (2017) and Graziela Kunsch’s video “Escolas” (2016) offer powerful reflections on intergenerational violence and the resilience of young activists fighting for their right to education.
As “On Education” coincided with political upheaval surrounding education policies, the exhibition takes on added significance. In a time where the right to protest is under threat, the show serves as a reminder of the importance of creative resistance and movements that prioritize compassion and change. Ultimately, “On Education” prompts viewers to consider what comes next in the ongoing struggle for equitable and transformative education systems.
If you want to experience this thought-provoking exhibition, “On Education” will be on display at Amant in Brooklyn until August 17. The show, curated by Tobi Maier, Patricia Margarita Hernandez, and Ian Wallace, offers a powerful exploration of the complexities of education and the potential for positive change.
