The Slave Theater

Hiroki Kobayashi 

on view: June 6 – June 20, 2010
Opening reception: Sunday, June 6, 4–7pm

Before the final demolition of The Slave Theater on Fulton Street in Brooklyn, FiveMyles will present an exhibition of photographs of this important historic institution. A movie house in the 1960s and 70s, the theater was bought by Judge John Phillips in 1980 and became an important home for Black Pride rallies and community activists in the 1980s and 90s. After a scandalous court case, in which Judge Phillips was declared incompetent, the theater fell into complete disrepair. Community organizations have tried unsuccessfully to request landmark status for this historical building and its contents of murals and large wall paintings. The theater is now for sale, and will most likely make room for condominiums.

The Japanese artist Hiroki Kobayashi has taken photographs of the theater’s decaying interior for the past year. His large images show the murals on the walls of icons and heroes of African American history. The photographs testify to the committed political meetings that took place in the theater, and they attempt to preserve what remains before the final destruction of the building. 

DIRECTIONS:

Take 2, 3, or 4 trains to Franklin Avenue. Walk two blocks against the traffic on Franklin. Walk ¾ block to 558 St. Johns Place. FiveMyles is within easy walking distance from the Brooklyn Museum.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:

FiveMyles is supported by The Andy Warhol Foundation, The Independence Community Foundation, The New York State Council for the Arts, The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Foundation for Contemporary Art .