About Balam: Balam is a Mexico-City based, internationally recognized artist whose practice spans sculpture, photography, installation, video, drawing, and writing. His work explores the relationship between culture and matter, the study and analysis of culture, history, and the ways in which contemporary cultures relate to the past. About the John O. Calmore Creative Activism Residency: The Calmore residency is a collaboration between SE CLT and McColl Center, which supports professional artists with a socially engaged practice. Named in honor of John O. Calmore’s legacy as a legal scholar and advocate for equity, the residency emphasizes the role of artists as catalysts for social action, problem-solving, and relationship building. Selected artists are provided time, space, and resources to deepen their work while engaging with Charlotte’s diverse communities. Balam Bartolomé is the inaugural John O. Calmore Creative Activism Resident.This collection of works was created during Balam's residency at McColl. They examine historical events and their impact on contemporary society, while exploring the relationship between culture and how history is presently defined within that culture.