"I'm Tired" Project now on view at HVCCA

The “I’m Tired Project” by British artists Paula Akpan and Harriet Evans, highlights the lasting impact of everyday micro-aggressions, assumptions & stereotypes. Performance is fused with written word as each of the participants formulate statements completing the phrase ‘I’m tired of…” The statement can address absolutely any kind of discrimination that the individual has personally experienced or feels passionate about. The artist duo then transcribe the individual’s text onto his/her bare back, excising the tension through this very physical act. Photography documents the final product, serving as a personal and communal diary of purification and absolution.

“By writing the phrases on people’s backs, the project offers both anonymity and the possibility for empathy.” - Alison Lynch for Metro.co.uk

London-based artist and “I’m Tired” Project co-founder, Paula Akpan completed a weeklong residency at the Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art (HVCCA) in Peekskill. We invited New Yorkers to participate in the project by attending a photo shoot at HVCCA on Feb. 20 & 21. The photos were then produced and hung in HVCCA’s mezzanine Gallery as part of the WORD exhibition. Paula also conducted anti-bullying and anti-discrimination workshops with Peekskill schools and community groups.

At the WORD opening reception Feb. 27, Paula and Harriet were presented with the prestigious Points of Light Award from the British Deputy Consul General. The Points of Light Award is given weekly to outstanding individual volunteers, in collaboration with British Prime Minister David Cameron. In a statement, Prime Minister Cameron said:

“Paula and Harriet have created an online space for millions of people to debate issues around intolerance and prejudice. The I’m Tired Project has given people around the world a creative and visual way to raise awareness of the everyday discriminations they face in order to challenge them and change the society we live in. I am delighted to recognise the impact of their project by recognising Paula and Harriet as UK Points of Light.”

HVCCA invites you to view these spectacular photographs, on view now through May 1. More information is available on our website.

Museum Hours:
Friday 11am – 5pm
Saturday & Sunday 12pm – 6pm
Tuesday -Thursday by prior appt.

Museum Admission:
Adults – $5
Seniors / Educators – $4*
Students / Children – $2*
Children under 8yrs – Free
Members – Free
*With valid ID

Tours available upon request.