Frame Work: "Friendly Fire" delves into police narratives
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Artist Khary Mason, and photos in the exhibition. Photos: Caria Taylor (left) and courtesy of Irwin House Detroit (right).
A new photo exhibition at Irwin House Gallery examines decades of Detroit policing through the perspective of a former detective who learned difficult truths about the criminal justice system.
State of play: "Friendly Fire," from Detroit native artist Khary Mason, reflects his experiences on both sides of the law.
- The show depicts his path from watching police TV shows as a child to entering the police academy looking to become a hero. And then — discovering truths about the system "at odds with his intentions and everything he was trained to believe," per a news release.
Zoom in: Mason went from working as a Detroit homicide detective to investigating claims of wrongful convictions under the Michigan Attorney General's Office, helping get six individuals exonerated. He also co-founded a photography program for city youth, and is involved in public speaking and other mentorship.
If you go: Friendly Fire runs through March 15. Hours are noon-7pm Thursdays-Saturdays and noon-5pm Sundays, plus by appointment. Events include an open mic night 6-9pm Friday hosted by Mason and a soundscape listening party Feb. 22.
- Irwin House is at 2351 W. Grand Blvd.
Zoom out: Alongside partners, Irwin House has also organized Sacred Spaces, a fourth annual self-guided tour across the city throughout Black History Month of Black-led arts spaces.
- More than 20 spaces are participating, with exhibitions and events including a free art exhibition with art for sale at Alkebulan Village (1-5pm Saturday and Sunday) and the opening of "From Ghana and Beyond" at Harper Galleries (noon-5pm Saturday and Sunday).