Return of the IARR Residents Exhibition

Material, Memory, & Contemporary Hands    

Studio Blue at Blue Light Junction is proud to present Material, Memory, & Contemporary Hands, a group exhibition showcasing the work of 11 artists from The Ibura Art & Research Residency.

The exhibition will run from September 26 through December 30, 2025, featuring a range of media including textiles, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.

Opening Reception
Friday, September 26th, 2025

The works on view will reflect how contemporary artists are reimagining traditional natural dye practices through experimental processes, material investigation, and conceptual frameworks. The exhibition invites viewers to consider the role of material and memory in contemporary artmaking and the relevance of plant-based color in today’s creative landscape.

Meet the Artists

About the Ibura Art & Research Residency

Ibura Art & Research Residency (IARR) is a bi-annual program of Blue Light Junction (BLJ) that provides studio space, financial support, and thought partners for researchers of all backgrounds to explore a question or line of inquiry that is related to their practice and to the ongoing work at BLJ. 

Between 2022 & 2024, IARR has welcomed various researchers whose practices encompass a wide variety of experiences and expressions. The residency focuses on hands-on learning and experimentation that prompts play and uplifts inquiry while making space to deepen existing knowledge.

Ibura
/E-boo’rah/
Ibura is a Swahili word of Arabic origin meaning
“something wonderful, a miracle, a very rare occurrence”

Ibura Art & Research Residency honors the work, practice, long-time mentorship, deep love, and friendship between Kenya Miles and K. Ibura. From the spark of an idea that grew Blue Light Junction, K. Ibura has played many roles in supporting and furthering the work and mission of BLJ.

The Ibura Arts and Research Residency is supported by a grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.