ABQ Times

SAWUBONA, a new exhibition featuring Black/African American and AAPINH youth artists alongside local mentors, is set to open with an artist reception on March 13 from 5 to 7 p.m. at City Hall’s Gallery One. The exhibition aims to challenge perceptions and foster dialogue through art.

“These young artists have powerful stories to tell, and their creativity offers new and meaningful ways to see the world," said Mayor Tim Keller. "This exhibition celebrates their artistry and also fosters a deeper understanding of identity, community, and belonging."

True New Mexico is an annual anti-racism project developed by the New Mexico Asian Family Center and the New Mexico Black Leadership Council. It seeks to address the tricultural myth of New Mexico's demographics by creating conversations about this notion.

The theme for True New Mexico 2024 was Sawubona, a Zulu greeting meaning “I see you.” This expression emphasizes recognizing each person's worth and dignity.

The True New Mexico 2024 cohort includes youth artists Alex Le, Andrew Michael Joseph, Aveolela Freeman, Dahlia Jarjusey, Dayana Calle, Floretta Stewart, Isabella Park, Kara Stricklin, Lana Nguyen, Lilly Tang, Mursal Hussaini, Soniah Davis-Crump along with mentors Tara Armijo-Prewitt, Sheldon Hamilton, SOKWA, and J P 제피.

“As a black woman living in New Mexico,” said True New Mexico Artist Dahlia Jarjusey. “It is my hope that SAWUBONA will help open the community’s eyes to the fact that racism is very prominent in our culture.”

SAWUBONA will be displayed until April 25. The opening reception and exhibition are free for public viewing during Gallery One hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday at City Hall's first floor located at 1 Civic Plaza NW.