Running through September 24 at The Architectural Heritage Center (AHC) is the exhibit “Black Domain” featuring photographs by Portland-based artist Intisar Abioto that examine the lived history of Black place. Through portraits of Black Portlanders in their homes, at work, in creativity and at worship, the exhibit captures places of architectural, cultural and historical relevance to the city’s Black communities.
The homes, small businesses, community centers and other sites in Abioto’s photographs have deep cultural meaning that illuminates their architectural significance. From these spaces, even the most intimate, emanate experience of Black life, rest and restoration, authority, education, creativity, comfort and solace.
“Black Domain” is the largest solo exhibit to date of work by Abioto, a multidisciplinary artist who works across photography, dance, research and writing. She has been documenting Black presence in Oregon since 2013, including The Black Portlanders photo essay and blog and the Black Legend, Black Oregon exhibit at the Oregon State Capitol in 2019.
AHC, 701 SE Grand Ave., is open Thursday-Saturday, 10 am-5 pm. Admission is free for AHC members/$8 for the general public.Â
Photo of retired librarian Patricia Welch at home by Intisar Abioto, 2022.