Chicago artist Shani Crowe expresses her art through braiding hair. Her exhibit, "DOME," is on display at WNDR Museum in the West Loop through September. Credit: Provided/WNDR Museum

WEST LOOP — The work of a Chicago-based artist with a passion for hair braiding debuts this weekend at WNDR Museum, 1130 W. Monroe St.

Shani Crowe’s “DOME,” a multi-sensory exhibit of light, sound and video, runs through Sept. 18. The WNDR Museum opens every day at 10 a.m. except for Tuesday and Wednesday, when it opens at noon, and closes at 8 p.m. every day except for Friday and Saturday, when it closes at 10 p.m.

The Chicago native uses the materials and techniques of African braiding in her sculptures, performance and installation art. She also incorporates art from other Black artists she’s inspired by.

“This sculpture concept is something I’ve wanted to create for years. I’ve just been waiting for the right place and time to bring it to life,” Crowe said. “Now, place and time have created an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and put myself out there in a new way, which I’m excited about.”

Crowe has worked with Grammy-winning R&B artist Solange Knowles and the Museum of Contemporary African and Diasporan Art in Brooklyn, New York, among other high-profile projects.

The “DOME” exhibit is part of WNDR Museum’s yearlong “Creatives of Color” series highlighting four Chicago artists of color. The other artists are Nikko Washington, Chelsey C. Sanders and Tubs.

“Each of the four featured artists are given seven weeks to scale their platforms, build authentic and inclusive narratives and share their work, story and impact with WNDR Museum visitors through a variety of touch points including panel discussions, custom merchandise, special events and more,” a statement from WNDR Museum said.

While there are also WNDR Museums in Seattle, San Diego and Boston, “Creatives of Color” is only in Chicago. Tickets to the WNDR Museum can be purchased on its website; general admission tickets for adults start at $32.


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