In the exhibition Inspire! Newark's Underground Railroad the exhibition concludes with some of Newark photographers who have documented culture and activism in the city over the past 50 years.
Thank you to John Matturi, Jillian M. Rock, Stafford Woods, Cesar Melgar and Tanisha Best for sharing their work.
Photographer: John Matturri, Location: Newark Broad Street. Circa 1972
What inspires you to document the land and the people of Newark?
Throughout my career I have always primarily been a photographer of cities and was privileged to begin this work by wandering the streets of my hometown with a camera, observing and interacting with it and its people.
Instagram: @johnmatturri
Photographer: Jillian M. Rock, Location: Broad Street Newark, 2020
What inspires you to document the land and the people of Newark?
My work is inspired by how Black people show up for one another through peaceful protests, love, and community building. I use documentations of their everyday life stories to juxtapose the stereotypes often placed on us.
Instagram: @jillianmrock
Photographer: Stafford Woods,
“Photo of Jerry Gant” Location: 744 Broad Street (2004/2005)
What inspires you to document the land and the people of Newark?
Newark artists have (a) gift for resiliency. Website: www.artistsnewark.com
Photographer: Tanisha Best, Location: West Side Park/Baseball Field. Between South 13th and South 17th streets, 2022
What inspires you to document the land and the people of Newark?
Newark is filled with the histories of resilient people whose beauty and the culture inspires and leaves me with a deeper appreciation for the city I call home. Instagram: @DearNewark
Photographer: Cesar Melgar, Location: Wilson Avenue (Freight Train Pass), 2022
What inspires you to document the land and the people of Newark?
“It just came natural to me – to be surrounded by diverse culture, the pride and strength of our people, beautiful architecture, the texture of the city itself. These are delicious ingredients for a visual artist to cook with.” Website: www.cesarmelgarphotography.com
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Welcome! Stay! The Black Women of Nineteenth Century Newark.