We Who Believe in Freedom:

Black Feminist DC

National Women’s History Museum

A vibrant and powerful inaugural exhibition in a non-traditional museum environment

Key Features

Large-scale, bold graphics that catch the attention of passers-by and visitors

Digital and analog interactives that are informative and engaging

Design of exhibit “nooks” for a contemplative experience

The Need

For decades the National Women's History Museum had been organizing virtual exhibits and programs before they hired Tessellate to create their first physical exhibit. The museum partnered with the DC Public Library for the inaugural exhibit, which focuses on the stories and voices of Black feminist organizers and theorists, including Anna Julia Cooper, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Mary Treadwell, and Nkenge Touré. With biographical-focused narratives and large imagery, we wanted to highlight the expansive work and struggle of the women who have made a difference in the lives of Black women in their Washington, DC communities, which reverberated throughout the United States. From start to finish, the project was completed in 8 months.

The Approach

Tessellate was challenged with creating an exhibition in a non-traditional space - the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library designed by Mies van der Rohe. Working with the museum and the curatorial team, renowned historians Sherie M. Randolph and Kendra T. Field, Tessellate created a bold and colorful exhibition system with interior nooks and passageways designed for contemplation. Interactive media and audio narratives "in their own voice" are found throughout the experience. The resulting design amplifies the lives of these powerful Black women and their contributions to feminism, politics, civil rights, and reproductive justice.

Visit: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St NW, Washington, DC 20001 - Lobby floor

For more information:

https://www.womenshistory.org/black-feminist-dc

https://www.womenshistory.org/articles/behind-scenes-we-who-believe-freedom