KIMBERLY DREW

How would you introduce yourself to those who do not know you?

I’d likely say, “You have got to follow this woman Kimberly Drew, her Instagram page is a mix of art, fashion, and baby goats.” As with most introductions, I think the beautiful specific details depend on who you’re pitching an idea towards.

Mercedes-Benz has chosen you for the #mbcollective project that focuses on the theme of the future: what does the future represent to you?

At the risk of being vague, I think of the future as all-encompassing. I think that the future is about choice and responsibility. What future do we want to build? Who will be present?

What is your approach to social media? Can social media positively influence social innovation?

My strategy and day-to-day life on social media is all about education and information sharing. I like to use my channels to bring beauty into the feeds of people who follow me, or tap into my page for whatever reason. I think that for better or worse, social media can guide our behaviors and I try to make my pages represent the truth of my world, but also the possibility for change and innovation.

What is the best memory from your childhood?

I do not have one.

You are young and you already have an important background: what cultural differences characterize you compared to your peers?

I think everyone has a story worth telling. On a personal level, I just so happen to represent an intersection of identities that have been marginalized. As a historian, I feel a particular duty and urgency to share, promote, and unapologetcially build a record of black excellence in the field of art and culture.

Tell us about the relationship between technology and art. Can they coexist?

Yes, absolutely and historians have been exploring this intersection in interesting ways over the past decade. I recommend taking a look at the work of EyeBeam, the Thoma Art Foundation, and, if you’re able, I also recommend visiting “Art in the Age of the Internet, 1989 to Today” at the ICA/Boston.

When did you understand that art would be part of your life?

There was never a time when art was not a part of my life. Honestly, I don’t think that any of us live in an art-less world.

If you could go back in time, would you make different life choices?

No.

What would you recommend to those who want to follow your path?

I beg you to find your own path. Working in the art world is hard enough, it’s imperative that you’re guided by what brings you joy. Whether you’re conserving a 17th century dress, on page 82 of your dissertation, or doing a Facebook Live of an art history lecture, the commitment to the work has to be based in a feral kind of love.

During your talk SXSW, at the convention in Texas, you talked about “equity.” What does equity represent to you?

I define equity as a fundamental understanding that we are all given different tools to survive. Striving for equity means rebuilding our systems to think about how they can serve more diverse sets of needs. Unlike equality, I think that equity is creative and investigative problem solving for a better future.

Instagram @museummammy
Photos courtesy of Mercedes-Benz