Inspired by Sonya Clark’s exhibit “Oaths and Epithets: Works by Sonya Clark,” local artists Njaimeh Njie and Corey Carrington explore the role of creativity in “The Space Between” at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Society for Contemporary Craft, Strip District.

Ms. Njie, founder and lead producer of Eleven Stanley Productions, and Mr. Carrington, Pittsburgh poet, visual artist and change-maker (whose stage name is Grits Capone), explore Pittsburgh salon stylists’ and barbers’ creative processes, personal connections and definitions of identity.

The duo will discuss the multilayered experience of black bodies in contemporary society.

“I believe a lot of black people grew up with this stereotypical identity of what black culture is,” Mr. Carrington said. “[Her] work has led me to believe and look at work objectively.”

Through Ms. Clark’s art, the young artist also learned how to create his own work objectively.

“I don’t tell people what my work is supposed to be about,” he said. “I let them interpret it. That’s so big, especially in [Ms. Clark’s] work.”

Through the use of hair fibers, the renowned Ms. Clark’s art is a reminder of past and present identities, which are similarly addressed in “The Space Between.”

“I think what’s most powerful for me, as far as being an artist, is demystifying art,” Mr. Carrington said.

He believes art is for all people regardless of one’s socioeconomic background, gender, race and ethnicity.

“The Space Between” also is an opportunity to inspire others who may feel their work is inept. Mr. Carrington also was drawn to Ms. Clark’s simplicity and urgent attention regarding social action.

Featured in five different shows across the United States, Ms. Clark’s artwork demands art lovers engage through the use of daily materials with an appealing view of modern art while exploring, mirroring and reflecting ideologies of the past.

From human hair and sugar to fine-tooth plastic combs and cloth, Ms. Clark’s installation explores the connotations of blackness, history and slavery in America.

Some of her most iconic works, which call attention to the sobering truths of race and history, include “3/​5th,” “Pearl of mother” and “Skein.”

“3/​5th” (2010), a crisp white shirt with three black-threaded cornrows down the back, is a subtle reminder of pre- and post-Civil War issues. Not only does it use minimal material but also it shows a contrast in colors — light versus dark, an ever-present theme in the U.S.

Because Ms. Clark allows others to interpret her work, the cornrows, a predominantly black hairstyle, placed on the back can symbolize shame or can be viewed as self-awareness — a presence in the back of one’s mind.

Created in 2006, “Pearl of mother” symbolizes Ms. Clark’s personal connection to her craft and shows a lineage in America.

This sculpted hand made from Ms. Clark’s hair holds a small white ball made from her mother’s hair in her palm. Its placement suggests a sacred familial history that, much like the beauty of a pearl, is timeless.

Arguably the most important piece in her work, “Skein” (2016) uses 80,000 strands of human hair to mark the number of people forced to the U.S. at the height of the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

In addition, other works such as “Encrusted” (2016-17) and “Sugar Chain” (2016), incorporate the deep-rooted history of American slavery in her show.

Her “skill of execution through her expanding, technical and formal vocabulary” is one of her many strong characteristics as an artist, said Bill Gaskins, associate professor at Cornell University in “Essay for ‘Oaths and Epithets: Works by Sonya Clark.’”

Awarded with one of The Pittsburgh Foundation’s 2016 Advancing Black Arts grants, Ms. Clark uses her personal narrative to explore an inherent past and present connection.

“We want people to walk in the door and be inspired,” said Janet McCall, Contemporary Craft’s executive director. “We want to connect with the community and build a community through art.”

For the past 46 years, the gallery has encouraged Pittsburghers to engage in techniques using materials such as wood, fiber, clay or randomly found objects to produce innovative art.

Through different artists, “The Space Between” and “Oaths and Epithets” focus on identity, materials and perception.

“It forces people to think critically about the work and reflect on the work after they leave,” Mr. Carrington said.

Like Ms. Clark’s work, “The Space Between” project speaks to more than one identity and will provide a safe space for people to engage in difficult dialogue. Ms. Clark’s work promotes diversity in art and is on exhibit in the space until Aug. 19, free of charge.

Society for Contemporary Craft is at 2100 Smallman St., Strip District; http://contemporarycraft.org; 412-261-7003.

Fitale Wari: fwari@post-gazette.com or 412-263-1130.

First Published: August 3, 2017, 4:00 a.m.