Artist Talk for Nous Sommes Ensemble: A Photographic Dossier of Senegal

Hosted by co-curators j.a. dennis and Adanma-Noni Huria.

Conversation moderated by Dr. Oumar Diallo | Educator, Scholar-Practitioner, and Community Advocate

Learn directly from j.a. dennis about the ideas, processes, and inspiration behind his current photography exhibition on view.

This compelling conversation, moderated by Dr. Oumar Diallo, provides art audiences and collectors an unique opportunity to connect, ask questions, and further explore the movitivations of the images on display. The discussion seeks to explore the intersections of photography, cultural identity, hospitality, and the everyday beauty of Senegalese life.

The show, Nous Sommes Ensemble, emphasizes the connection j.a. cultivated with the Senegalese land and people during his time there, which depicts his new found understanding of African culture and its binding ties between Africans in Senegal and America. Additionally, this show holds particular significance, as the photographs captured documents a journey to Senegal in which the artist experienced the warmth of Oumar’s family home, hosted by his mother, Madame Abibatou Ndiaye, during Tabaski, one of Senegal’s most cherished religious and communal celebrations.

Artist: j.a dennis is a multidisciplinary artist who interweaves poetry, photography, and musicianship to encapsulate his authentic artistic expression. j.a. has used his unique blend of artistry to captivate audiences through powerful storytelling and has built a reputation as an innovative and compelling voice of Black life and culture. Also known as jd by his peers, j.a’s work explores themes ranging from social justice and identity politics to personal growth and self-discovery.

Curator bio:

Moderator: Born and raised in Dakar, Senegal, Dr. Oumar Diallo is an educator, scholar-practitioner, and instructional leader whose personal and professional journey has been guided by the Senegalese values of Teranga (hospitality), Kersa (humility and respect), and Diom (dignity and integrity). Currently serving as an Assistant Principal at the historic Dunbar High School in Washington, DC, Oumar has dedicated his career to advancing educational equity, culturally responsive pedagogy, and the transformative power of community. His doctoral research explored how educators can develop the critical consciousness necessary to reimagine schools as spaces of liberation and possibility.