JOSH EPPERSON
  • Exhibition Writing & Art Criticism
  • Brand Work
  • Community Involvement

Exhibition Writing & Art Criticism

Exhibition Writing

Exhibition writing needs a wake up call. For too long, we've told exhibition stories that feature all the dates, contextual background, and object specifics you'd expect -- with none of the narrative you crave. I'm excited by shows that can offer audiences real experiences and immersive stories.

While my work has primarily focused on African American culture, I also explore science, nature, politics, and the solar system. 
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The Negro Motorist Green Book
Working with our curator, I developed the script and label copy for this exhibition scheduled for opening late 2020. The exhibit featured an immersive look at the harsh reality of travel for Blacks Americans in the mid twentieth century, and the vibrant parallel world of African American-friendly businesses that supported them. Visitors are transported back to a time when, if you were black, it took bravery and a Green Book to cross the country safely.
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Men of Change
Assisting an incredible writer and design team, I played a role as strategist / creative inspiration / story consultant to shape an exhibition that continues to wow audiences. Through literary and historic quotes, poetry, original works of art, dramatically back-lit photographs, the creation of a dynamic space that encourages self-reflection, and exhibition text written with a vibrant 21st century cadence, this innovative exhibition weaves together the historical and the contemporary to illuminate the importance of these men, within the context of rich community traditions.
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Art Criticism

Writing exhibitions only deepens my love for attending them. The work of exhibition review and criticism helps me explore the power of art, storytelling, and the intersection of audience psychology and creative intention.
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In late fall of 2019, I reviewed the exhibition Great Force at the Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at Virginia Commonwealth University. Review below. 
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  • Exhibition Writing & Art Criticism
  • Brand Work
  • Community Involvement