May 18th 2017

Kitihawa’s Chandelier is a powerful photographic tale that blurs the line between fiction and reality. The narrative honors the historical, cultural and racial fusion of an African and Native American. It celebrates the strength and resilience of women and children in the face of adversity and highlights the importance of recognizing each other’s history in our quest for a harmonious co-existence.

Kitihawa’s Chandelier made its debut in part at the residence of French Consul General Vincent Floreani in September 2016. Henry then won the Artist Residence at the Lycée Français de Chicago and returned to complete the tale in November 2016. A permanent installation of the series now hangs in the entrance of the Lycée Français.

Kitihawa’s Chandelier will launch as a touring exhibition at the Du Sable Museum of African American History on May 18, 2017 through September 30, 2017. It will then travel from the south to the west and north sides of Chicago, in an effort to bridge the gap between neighborhoods and provide opportunities to engage creatively with others, collaborate, and enhance communities’ own missions and events.

This exhibition provides a gathering place for people to embrace their history, culture and heritage, spark dialogue, build relationships and address the challenges and promises represented in the series. It helps to develop ties on a cultural level and it responds to our communities’ call to foster a deeper understanding of each other.

“The creation of Kitihawa’s Chandelier involved many conversations with residents of Chicago’s French, African and Native American communities, all of whom believe disbanding segregation necessitates the appreciation of each other’s history. It was this common interest that inspired the making of this project.

Kitihawa‘s Chandelier depicts life experienced by the children I worked with. As in any tale, it is gripping and magical. It tackles complex issues, presents valuable lessons and reflects the profound humanity of its characters.

– Nicolas Henry

Official Website

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