On Saturday, January 18th, SANMAN hosted an artist talk with Morgan Newton. During this conversation, the two artists discussed pieces featured in “The South Got Somethin’ To Say” and the many influences that led Newton to creating this exhibit. 

Facilitated by transdisciplinary artist, Bria Lauren, the talk explored the deep respect Newton has for the South and the Black women who continue to influence her art. Morgan explained the importance of black womanhood and the influence the South has on rap culture in molding her process as a conceptual artist.

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Morgan’s creative process consists of creating collages with physical media, painting, and using cyanotypes on various textiles. Using imagery that depicts what it is like to exist as a Black woman in the South, she creates beautiful works of art that pay homage to Houston*. Morgan uses many different mediums to showcase the multiple facets of Black life.

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“The South Got Somethin’ To Say” came to fruition from a quote by southern rap duo “OutKast” during an acceptance speech that changed the future of rap. It was the 1995 Sport’s awards and in response to a bitter crowd, Andre 3000 asserts the South’s standing as a producer of rap greatness. Morgan pulls this quote and pairs it with her deep ties to her womanhood and her love of music.

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Morgan’s exhibition “The South Got Somethin’ To Say” is on view from December 7th,2024 through February 1st, 2025 at SANMAN Studios during gallery hours (Wed-Sun|11am-7pm)

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