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Exhibition
"Old Bahamas in Photos and Postcards," Junkanoo, Bay Street, Nassau, 1951. oldbahamas.com. Courtesy of Bob Davies.

Kencovia Jean-Baptiste thesis exhibition: 'Junkanoo: Celebrating Authenticity in Appropriation'

SCAD presents "Junkanoo: Celebrating Authenticity in Appropriation," a thesis exhibition curated by Kencovia Jean-Baptiste (M.A. luxury and fashion management). The exhibition showcases the contemporary collection "Junkanoo: Bahamian Opulence" by internationally acclaimed Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett.

"Junkanoo: Celebrating Authenticity in Appropriation" showcases a blend of contemporary fashion and traditional Bahamian Junkanoo culture with anthropological acknowledgement from a perspective of cultural celebration rather than appropriation. While cultural appropriation in the fashion industry is most often inappropriate, there are designers who express an authentic sensitivity to both indigenous ethnicity and cultural identity in their designs, solidifying the coexistence of dual creativity.

On display in the exhibition are one-of-a-kind garments by Elyett that tell an authentically appropriated story through vibrant colors, traditional silhouettes and radiant textiles and embellishments, deeply rooted in the Bahamian Junkanoo culture. In addition to the garments, photo reproductions of the Bahamian Junkanoo Festival from the mid 1900s depict the origin of Elyett’s line, representing the rhythm and exaggerated costumes of the culture. The garments highlight diverse beauty in the cross-cultural pollination that defines fashion today.

This exhibition provides a pivotal shift in the narrative of cultural appropriation serving as an example of global inspiration adapted by a designer who understands that ethno-cultural designs can exist in an industry that affects global citizens of all races, ethnicities and nationalities.

The opening reception will feature a live artist talk between curator and designer via Skype. For updates on the exhibition, follow @kencoviai on Instagram.

Opening reception: Thursday, April 5, 6–8 p.m.
Gallery hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.