Berkley Exhibit: Ethnic Notions

Ethnic Notions: Black Images in the White Mind

Recently, University of California Berkley featured an exhibit by the name of "Black Images in the White Mind," created by Jan Faulkner. The exhibits composed of Faulkner's collection of items that depict various characters from the film Ethnic Notions. Though Faulkner refers to her collection of artifacts as "artistic," the collection tends to draw a vast range of emotion from its viewers. The exaggerated features of the African American characters allows viewers to make an era of inequality tangible. The various trinkets displayed are Faulkner's personal findings from the past fifty years. Mamie illustrations, feral bare bottomed babies, razor-wielding bucks, and black dandies in lavish waist coats are just a few of the examples of characters created for the sheer purpose of white man comedy. The formerly thought of as "comedic" cartoons are now seen as the white mans dehumanization of African Americans through out slavery. When interviewed, she explained her rational behind creating the exhibit. Her purpose was simple, she yearned to embrace the past. Though Faulkner wished to make it clear that she was not glorifying the racial artifacts, but rather using these as a tool to connect with the hard ships that now remain a subtle whisper. In addition, she sought to demean the artifacts as subjects of cruelty; done so for the purpose of stripping the power of the proprietor.

In connection to modern day society, race is still prevalent in social division. Though objects featuring the imagery is no longer produced in such a fashion;  racism is still in existence. Unfortunately, a lot of Faulkner's exhibit is in fact still relevant today. The difference? Racial imagery does still exist through out the media, however due to being considered "politically" incorrect, the modern day images are far more subtle. The subtlety with which these images are presented in modern day media poses the same ideas. The loud cry of racism that we were forced to face has dangerously turned into quiet whispers. These images remain relevant amongst several modern day icons; ranging from Kernel Sanders plantation owner on the face of your favorite chicken to Aunt Jemima's famous syrup.

We are part of an era who has a responsibility to continue equality amongst all races. While acknowledging our cultural differences and heritage is something to be done with pride, society can not fall short in the process of creating more cohesion and eliminate racial barriers. Both this exhibit and the articles that followed allow for multiple perspectives from different demographics. All of which, thanks to the collection, are able to witness first hand a painful but important part of our history.

The display entails a unique ability to appeal to all Americans, despite what ethnicity. In progressing forward towards complete equality, understanding our past is imperative to learn. Faulkner was able to take artifacts and embrace their relevancy to society's make up.