The Sweet Appreciation of Freedom
17 January - 28 February 2026
Overview
Tariku Shiferaw, Dahomey, 2025 acrylic on canvas 60 x 60 in
Tariku Shiferaw, Dahomey, 2025 acrylic on canvas 60 x 60 in
Jenkins Johnson San Francisco presents The Sweet Appreciation of Freedom, an exhibition featuring contemporary artists of the diaspora who address pressing social, political, and cultural issues of today. Taking its title from a famous quote by Malcolm X, “It’s only after slavery and prison that the sweetest appreciation of freedom can come,” the exhibition takes place during Black History Month and coincides with the anniversary of Malcolm X’s assassination. Sixty-one years later, these words remain relevant as these artists confront contemporary struggles.
 
Through painting, sculpture, photography, installation, and writing, Patrick Alston, Genevieve Gaignard, Alex Jackson, Rindon Johnson, and Tariku Shiferaw explore ideas of liberation, identity, and resilience, challenging systemic racism while celebrating Black empowerment, creativity, and agency. Their work affirms that freedom is not only a historical struggle but a present and ongoing practice.
 
The Sweet Appreciation of Freedom opens 5:00–7:00 pm on Saturday, January 17, at Jenkins Johnson Gallery San Francisco, 1275 Minnesota St. #200. The exhibition coincides with FOG Design + Art opening in San Francisco during San Francisco Art Week. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Fridays, 11am - 6pm, and Saturdays 11am - 5pm. The exhibition will be on view through Saturday, February 28, 2026. Please send inquiries to info@jenkinsjohnsongallery.com  and follow us @jenkinsjohnsongallery on Instagram for updates and more information.
  
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