In Kind We Trust, is the first of a series of archival-based exhibitions that is inspired by artist Colby Deal's reading of "Photography on the Color Line." This book delves into the process in which W.E.B. Dubois collected and exhibited hundreds of photographs of Black Americans in the year 1900. The purpose was to showcase the true Black American experience and living conditions in the South, while also addressing the way they were viewed and portrayed by others, a phenomenon known as Double Consciousness. Over a century later, Deal aims to accomplish a similar endeavor. In Kind We Trust is an exploration of people of color becoming the authors of their own archival representation and narrative, from within their own communities. In the making of this series, Deal attended a number of community cookouts, and interacted interpersonally with two different families, while also including a small series of images of everyday nuances of the Black community. He continued his process of building custom wooden frames for each image, while applying fabric and a combination of treatments to mimic photos as they would exist in the home. The exhibition is a reflection on the essence of humanity, the beauty of our everyday lives, and the importance of self-representation and storytelling. In Kind We Trust opens on February 3rd at 6pm, accompanied by a book signing of Deal’s first monograph, Beautiful Still. The show will be on view at ART IS BOND. from February 3 to February 28, 2023.

About the Artist:

Colby Deal is a photographic artist born and raised in Houston, Texas and has a BFA in photography from the University of Houston. Within his practice he explores many elements such as the culmination of not only the psychological environment but the physical as well. He wants to show the dynamic range of family, community and the individual by combining street photography and portraiture to capture vibrant communities. Colby is directly inspired by his upbringing. As a child he remembers getting to see his family’s photographs that were mostly taken by his father. This appreciation for slowing down and concentrating on photographing what’s right in front of him, “The Now” has led him to be more in touch with using analog photography and giving up the instant gratification that comes with shooting digitally.

ART IS BOND. is a contemporary art gallery and project space based in Houston, Texas. We are committed to the amplification and visibility of a spectrum of creative voices, narratives, and aesthetics. Our exhibitions, programming, and publications will both challenge and expand the history and future of art and collecting.

ART IS BOND. is open Tuesday-Saturday from 11am to 6pm, or by appointment.