Saya Woolfalk: Field Notes from the Empathic Universe
September 23 – November 19, 2023
Opening September 23, 2023 1PM–5PM
Saya Woolfalk: Field Notes from the Empathic Universe invites visitors to enter the kaleidoscopic and culturally hybrid worlds created by the artist. The exhibition features an immersive video installation exploring portraiture and a series of new mixed media collages, transformed by Woolfalk’s digitally-collaged murals. Known for her site-specific multimedia works that investigate global traditions and cultural difference, Woolfalk is the creator of the Empathics—fictional futuristic beings who time-travel and shape-shift across the multiverse. This installation initially premiered in 2021 at Newark Art Museum, where Woolfalk studied their herbaria (plant specimens) and landscape painting collections, reinterpreting these artifacts—and their relation to American identity—from the perspective of the Empathics.
About the Artist
Saya Woolfalk is a New York-based artist who uses science fiction and fantasy to re-imagine the world in multiple dimensions. Working with a wide range of traditional and new media, Woolfalk creates immersive installations that activate themes of hybridity, technology, and human culture. Learn more about this artist here.
Save the Date
AfroFuturism and Visual Culture
Saturday, October 14, 5PM-6PM
This panel discussion features Saya Woolfalk in conversation with JAHMANE and Dr. Semente and moderated by Juanita Sunday in collaboration with Cultured AF’s Into the AfroVerse Summit, 6th Dimension Festival.
This presentation of the exhibition is organized by Kalia Brooks, NXTHVN’s director of programs and exhibitions.
Gallery Hours: Wed-Sun, 2PM–6PM
NXTHVN Gallery
169 Henry St
New Haven, CT 06511
For inquiries, please email exhibitions@nxthvn.com
For press inquiries, please contact Carrie Paveglio at carrie@olucompany.com
Image Credits: Courtesy of Saya Woolfalk
Encyclopedia of Cloud Divination Plate 1, 2018. Archival inkjet print mixed media, 43 ¾ x 33 ¾ inches. Edition of 14.
Encyclopedia of Cloud Divination Plate 2, 2018. Archival inkjet print mixed media, 43 ¾ x 33 ¾ inches. Edition of 14.
Encyclopedia of Cloud Divination Plate 3, 2018. Archival inkjet print mixed media, 43 ¾ x 33 ¾ inches. Edition of 14.