Mary Kelly

American, born 1941

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The image shows a handwritten postcard with multiple fold marks. On the left, there is an address: "James Earl Chaney at 90 S.N.C.C, Meridian, MS, zip code 39301". On the right, the postcard has a message written in cursive, dated June 25th. The message reads: My James, Been down to the trial + to see your grave. Never going back there til I’m dead. Then, at least they won’t have to hate me. Yesterday, the preacher was sent up for 60 yrs. But your brother says he’s not in a forgiving state. I’m just tired + miss my boy. xx Mama" The postcard is stamped from Salem with a USA nonprofit postage stamp. In the background, there is text that reads "James Earl Chaney Foundation" dividing the message and address. The handwriting is informal yet legible.
Mary Kelly, My James, 2008, compressed lint on cardboard, Pepita Milmore Memorial Fund and Firestone Fund, 2018.62.1

My James

Mary Kelly · 2008 · compressed lint on cardboard ·  Accession ID  2018.62.1
This is a photograph of a group of people standing together. The photograph captures a crowd of individuals, standing shoulder to shoulder, facing the camera. They appear to be in a public setting, and some hold signs with text. The image is in black and white. There is a sense of unity and shared purpose among the individuals as they stand closely together with linked arms. The duplicate effect in the second image creates a ghostly appearance.
Mary Kelly, WLM Remix, 2005, single-channel digital film projection, black-and-white, silent, 1:30 minutes, Avalon Fund, 2024.37.1

WLM Remix

Mary Kelly · 2005 · single-channel digital film projection, black-and-white, silent, 1:30 minutes ·  Accession ID  2024.37.1