When Atlanta artist Shanequa Gay was presented with the opportunity to paint directly onto the walls of the Hammond House Museum for a site-specific exhibition, she knew that meant that someday her work would be covered up.
Now, that day is drawing nearer.
The exhibit, “Lit Without Sherman: A Love Letter to the West End,” will close later this week, but not without one more gathering to celebrate the artwork.
There will be a closing party held from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 22 at the West End museum.
The exhibit, which opened in June, features Gay’s artwork throughout the house. It’s an ode to the neighborhood she knew as a child.
"This exhibit is a collaboration," Gay said in a statement. "Not only have I expressed my deep affection and feelings about the West End, but I worked with members of the community to help tell their stories. The West End neighborhood has a rich history and its residents include activists, artists, politicians, scholars and people from all walks of life. There are so many stories to share."
Gay, who is a native of Atlanta, also participated in effort to splash the city with murals ahead of the Super Bowl.
The closing party for “Lit Without Sherman” — a tongue-in-cheek nod to the fact that the historic neighborhood was spared on Sherman’s march through Atlanta — will feature a DJ and exhibit-specific merchandise for sale.
"With it's vibrant colors and life-size subjects, this show has captured the imagination of everyone who has walked through the door. It has become more than a fine art exhibition," a description for the event reads.
The show is meant to spark conversations about gentrification and change in the neighborhood.
The closing party is free for members and $10 for non-members. Tickets can be purchased in advance here.
