Devin Allen’s “A Beautiful Ghetto” at Slought

Actually, it’s not so much an photography exhibition as a “visual story.” It could also be a call to action if you let it.

Photojournalist Devin Allen came into his own as Baltimore was in turmoil over the death of Freddie Gray. Throughout the protests and police actions, Allen was there, posting photos on Instagram and telling the story from a passionate, in-the-trenches perspective. His photos — one of which was featured on the cover of Time magazine — went viral and became both inspiring and horrifying symbols of the state of the relationship between the police and African-Americans, not just in Baltimore but everywhere.

The opening reception is tonight, Friday, January 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m., and includes “reports by activists and concerned citizens” from Baltimore (Allen along with Kwame Rose and Michael Wood) and Philadelphia (Megan Malachi of the Philly Coalition for REAL Justice). Scholar/activist Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor of Princeton University will lead the conversation.

Slought is at 4017 Walnut Street. More information here.

P.S.: Here’s a pretty sharp video about Devin Allen: