FotoFocus Inaugurates Permanent Exhibition Space with "Big Tent" Exhibition

FotoFocus, a leading organization in the field of lens-based art, has established its inaugural permanent exhibition center in Cincinnati, Ohio, after a quarter-century of activating various city locations with its ambitious programming. This new 14,700-square-foot facility, featuring an elegant design of timber and glass by architect José Garcia, includes a staircase reminiscent of a camera viewfinder and thresholds echoing Polaroid frames, thereby solidifying FotoFocus's standing at the forefront of the global art scene.

To mark the opening of this new space, artistic director and curator Kevin Moore has launched "Big Tent," an exhibition that directly and thoughtfully examines the question of American identity and who is included within its definition, drawing inspiration from Amanda Gorman's poem "In this Place (An American Lyric)." Moore's curatorial vision intertwines powerful images from historical figures like Gordon Parks and Robert Frank with contemporary works by artists such as An-My Lê, Catherine Opie, Alec Soth, and David Benjamin Sherry. The exhibition, particularly its large portrait gallery on the upper floor, champions the spirit of individuality cherished by many Americans. Following "Big Tent," FotoFocus will host "The Long View," its biennial event, featuring significant exhibitions by Trevor Paglen, Paul Mpagi Sepuya, and Nancy Rexroth.

Kevin Moore emphasizes that the "Big Tent" exhibition was conceived to be inclusive and deliberately thought-provoking, especially in light of contemporary societal issues. He highlights photography's inherent democratic nature, recalling figures like Frederick Douglass who used the medium to advocate for social equality. Moore’s curatorial process involves an intuitive approach, aiming to pose questions rather than provide definitive answers, using art as a platform for dialogue. The selection of works, including key pieces by Accra Shepp, Builder Levy, and Dawoud Bey, serve as anchors, exploring the complex interplay of identity, border conflicts, and surveillance in modern society. Despite the new building's pristine architecture, Moore embraced imperfection in the display, believing that art introduces a valuable element of raw truth and invites viewers to engage deeply with the presented themes.

This innovative approach not only provides FotoFocus with a stable home but also enhances its visibility, attracting both international and local artists to Cincinnati. By fostering an environment that encourages experimentation and current discourse, FotoFocus aims to remain nimble and responsive, utilizing photography as a vital language to explore contemporary issues and elevate public conversation.