Skiing in Color // An Exhibit at the Christian Center of Park City

With few exceptions, skiing is an undiversified sport. Visual artist Lamont Joseph White draws our awareness to this pattern of imbalance in a historically privileged sport in his new exhibit called “Skiing in Color” at The Christian Center of Park City. The exhibit features Black faces in ski and snowboarding gear, and is on display from December 1st to December 13th, 2020. 

White began to paint these pieces in early 2020. This was prior to many of this year’s nationwide incidences of police brutality, anti-Black violence, and subsequent global protests. Now, his work contributes to the nationwide conversation about racism and disenfranchisement. This exhibit signals to our community that the conversation must be continued in Park City. 

In an article for the Park Record, White says, “I’ve had certain moments when I realize the residents aren’t used to being around people who don’t typically look like them […] While I’m used to being in environments that aren’t diverse, I kept thinking about what I could do to help create a more diverse environment through the power of visual representation to help all sides see and think about inclusion.”

Many of us recognize the power of art to facilitate introspection, self-examination, and conversation. There is work to be done — work that should not amount to additional labor for people of color, who already bear the burden of systemic racism. 

Many of us can also recognize the value of representation. White knows that the lack of representation of Black people within the sport, “sets up a self-fulfilling prophecy for the reason many people of color choose not to ski.” 

Ultimately, the art produced by our community should empower the many voices within our community, and reflect our values as a community. This winter, we thank Lamont Joseph White for his vision, and for serving as impetus to Park City’s change. 

You can check out the exhibit website here. 

A detailed interview with Lamont Joseph White can be found in the Park Record here.