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Calvin Alexander Ramsey’s
exhibition, Quest for Freedom, impressive photographs that
pique curiosity in his passionate interest in historical sites
pertinent to the lives of two formidable advocates for justice and
freedom for all humanity…a funding philanthropist and an
anti-slavery crusader. The exhibition will open at the June
Kelly Gallery, 166 Mercer Street, on Thursday, January 17, and
remain on view until April 1, 2025.
Ramsey's photography is
deeply influenced by his experiences as an author, playwright, and
traveler. His unexpected encounters during a multicultural
book festival in 2022, such as the grandeur of the skies above the
Adirondack Mountains and the simplicity of the interiors of Mrs.
John Brown's Farmhouse in North Elba, captivated him. These
experiences and travels across the country have deeply influenced
Ramsey’s photography, which is reflected in this work.
Ramsey’s imagery offers a
unique perspective on these historical figures, their intimate
relationships, and events. When lecturing in Virginia, his
lens captures the weight of history and the legacy of a man who
fought for freedom and equality for all humanity and the other man
who, as a member of the Secret Six financially but perhaps unaware
of details, supported John Brown’s raid at Harper’s Ferry in 1859.
In the 1840s, New York
State African Americans faced a voting restriction requiring them to
own at least two hundred- and fifty dollars worth of land. In
this context, the abolitionist, activist, philanthropist, and
wealthy landowner Gerrit Smith gave land and money to create
Timbuctoo, an African American community in North Elba, New York.
This community stood as a living testament to the transformative
power of unity and determination. Smith's vision was to
provide 3,000 African Americans with parcels of land, fostering a
spirit of freedom, full citizenship, and the right to vote.
When Smith called upon those willing to come to the extremely harsh,
rugged country and learn to farm, it tested their determination in
their quest for freedom. Lyman Eppes, Sr., among other Black
urbanites, accepted Smith’s offer. They cleared land and
learned to farm; however, the rocky soil and long winters made
farming daunting. Despite these challenges, Eppes was one of the few
who remained. His story and those of others who persevered are
a testament to their indomitable human will.
Ramsey's photos of Smith’s
vast land, Mrs. John Brown’s farmhouse interiors, and Harper’s Ferry
glimpse that time and space…that transformative era with the
potential for change and progress back then. These visual narratives
leave the viewer feeling inspired and empowered.
Ramsey was born in
Baltimore, Maryland, and grew up in Roxboro, North Carolina.
He lives in New York City. He studied at UCLA. He is
known more as a playwright and children’s book author, having
written and produced the musical Bricktop and Ruth and The
Green Book, the picture book inspiration for the Academy
Award-winning film The Green Book. His latest book, The
Library In The Woods, will be released in 2025. His
photographs have been exhibited in the U.S. Virgin Islands and are
included in private collections in the United States. Ramsey
received the Jane Adams Award for Ruth and The Green Book and
Belle, The Last Mule at Gees Bend, the Bank Street College
Best Book Award, the Texas Blue Bonnet Award, the Forward Magazine
Best Book Award, ALA Notable Book Award, and the Star Review School
Library Journal Award, and the distinguished Dr. Martin Luther King,
Jr. Drum Major for Justice Award. Ramsey is a member of the
National Arts Club, New York, Sons of The American Revolution, and a
former Trustee at the Bronx Museum of Art, New York.
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