Work, play, community.
What:	Bayeté Ross Smith: Passing
When:	Friday, March 16, 2007 7pm-10pm · Opening Reception
	Saturday, April 14, 2007 5pm-7pm · Closing Reception
Where:	Bluespace, 593 Guerrero St @ 18th, San Francisco, CA
Details:	Passing explores how issues regarding race, ethnicity, nationality and class, affect individual identity and perception. The project acknowledges facial features and skin tone as criteria that determine race and class, while highlighting the influence of clothing and style in determining these criteria. Through the use of passports and studio portraiture, Passing examines how the various elements that determine identity, change meaning in different contexts. Consequently, Passing exposes identity as a fluid concept that can and is transforming constantly. This is something most of us are aware of, however when viewing works from Passing we are increasingly aware of our own biases and preconceived notions regarding identity. The shifting 'look' of the characters presented draws attention to our personal criteria for allowing individuals to 'pass' freely into various areas of our lives, both social and professional. It also draws attention to the biases, which affect the multiple social systems, both domestic and global, which governs our daily lives. Furthermore passing raises questions about which individuals are allowed to 'pass' through these systems, which ultimately enhance or restrict our access to the resources of our new 'global society'.
See:	Bayeté Ross Smith: http://www.bayeterosssmith.com/
www.sfbluespace.com · 593 Guerrero St, San Francisco, CA · 415-431-BLUE