Echoes of Resilience: A walk Through Art and History- Haderah Phillips (General museum visit and reflection: 2 points)
On October 1, 2025 I visited the Nancy Elizabeth Prophet: I Will Not Bend An Inch exhibition. Visiting the museum was a meaningful and grounding experience for me. From the moment I walked in, the space felt calm and powerful. Seeing her sculptures up close, especially knowing how few of her works still survive, gave me a sense of courage and resilience behind each piece. The figures seemed to hold more than form and shape. They held stories of determination that stayed with me long after I left the museum. It made me think about the parts of ourselves that don't bend even when life is hard. Prophet's story reminded me that art is not just something to look at but is also something that lives through time, preserving dreams, pain, joy, and identity. I found myself reflecting on how her courage continues to inspire artists and students today, especially in a place like our campus museum that celebrates women of the African diaspora. What stood out to me the most was how personal the experience felt. Being in the museum made me reflect on the importance of having spaces that honor voices that are often overlooked. I felt a strong connection between the artwork and the purpose of the honors program, which is learning, is not just through books, but through lived experiences, reflection, and cultural awareness.
The museum visit also made me more aware of how our campus itself holds history and meaning. It was powerful to realize that this space exists for students like me to learn, reflect, and feel inspired. Walking through the exhibit felt like a reminder that growth can happen quietly, simply by being open and present. I could sense the care and thought behind every piece of art. Experiencing art in this way encouraged me to be more present, more observant, and more thoughtful, not just in the museum but also in daily life. The museum also gave me space to think about my own journey. Walking through the gallery, I reflected on my personal growth, the challenges I've faced, and the opportunities I've experienced. Being in a place dedicated to creativity and expression reminded me that growth is not only measured in achievement or grades, it can also come from quiet reflection, observation, and understanding the world from different perspectives. The visit showed me that insight often comes when we pause, pay attention, and allow ourselves to be moved by the stories that surround us.
-Haderah Phillips
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