FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY

SPONSORS PATROSINADORIS

WHAT VISITORS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE
I SEE YOU/N STA ODJABU PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION

What started out as an ode to my family and friends morphed into something undeniably impactful in ways that I never imagined. I met a gentleman at the opening reception on September 23, 2025, who had stopped in to see the exhibition the day before. He was on Route 9 and Googled places to eat in the area. For some reason, the Danforth Art Museum popped up. He's an art enthusiast so it intrigued him because he had never heard of the Danforth. When he went to the Danforth's website, the first picture he saw was "Crown of Beauty." That intrigued him so he visited the exhibition. He said when he walked in, he couldn't believe what he saw. "There were people of color everywhere." He was so deeply moved by the representation that he became a member of the Danforth that day. He also returned the next day because he wanted his daughter to see people of color in that environment as well. He wanted to meet and personally thank me for my work. 

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READ OTHER VISITER EXPERIENCES BELOW:

"That the works on view are beautiful and moving." - Unknown

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I visited the I SEE YOU exhibit at the Danforth Museum, featuring artist Sonya Fort. The exhibition showcases a powerful series of artistic expressions highlighting families, new marriages, decades-long unions, dance, and the expressiveness of cultural hair.

My favorite piece is a photograph titled “Generations IV.” It beautifully encapsulates generations of love, from the beginning to the present. Absolutely stunning. Stop by if you can—it’s truly worth it. - JJ

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Sonya's exhibition, I See You, is deeply moving and beautifully personal. It feels like being invited into her life, her memories, her family, and the places that have shaped who she is. Her photographs are a visual diary filled with love, "morabeza", and quiet reflection. The way she connects Massachusetts and Cape Verde is especially powerful. Seeing her home, family, and community alongside images from Cape Verde, particularly Maio and Fogo, creates a strong sense of identity. You can feel how place and people are woven together in her work, and how both are essential to her understanding of self. As someone from Cape Verdean culture, this exhibition meant a great deal to me. Our culture is rarely represented in museums, and seeing it honored with such care and authenticity was truly special. Sonya captures the everyday beauty, traditions, and rhythms of life in Cape Verde in a way that feels honest and full of heart. This exhibition made me feel seen. It reminded me of how rich and meaningful our culture is, and how powerful it can be when our stories are told through art. I am truly grateful for this work and for the space Sonya has created.

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"Have you ever experienced a country through photographs rather than words? That’s how I felt while visiting the I SEE YOU Photography Exhibition at the Danforth museum in Framingham, MA. The photographer Sonya Fort immediately pulled me in and made me feel connected to the Cape Verdean islands and the people who live there through her captivating photos. As I walked through the exhibit, I loved how the photos captured everyday life in Cape Verde. Images of families, fishermen, markets, and streets felt honest and personal, almost like moments frozen in time. It felt like I was actually there! The Pictures of volcanic mountains, dry land, and coastal villages showed the raw radiant beauty of the islands. The visual exhibit tells a powerful story of a resilient people. make sure you don't miss it." - CJ

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"As someone from the Cape Verde Islands, seeing these photographs presented with such care and sensitivity is deeply touching. The exhibition beautifully honors our culture and spirit, offering a perspective that feels intimate, respectful, and full of heart." - LC

"Peak into other's places, minds, and ideas." - Unknown

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​"​​​​​​​​​Attending Sonya Tanae Fort’s solo exhibition was an unforgettable experience—truly more than I expected in the best possible way. From the moment I entered the space, I was immersed in the richness, depth, and beauty of Cape Verdean culture. The exhibition was both educational and deeply moving. As someone from the Caribbean, I found myself profoundly connected to the historical narratives, particularly those rooted in the shared experiences of slavery, resilience, and survival. Sonya’s work did something powerful—it bridged cultures, histories, and generations in a way that felt both intentional and inviting. It reminded me how interconnected our stories truly are. What stood out most was how accessible and impactful the exhibition was for everyone. From the young to the seasoned, there was something meaningful to take away. It sparked reflection, conversation, and a deeper appreciation for a culture that deserves to be seen, honored, and celebrated. This exhibition didn’t just display art—it created connection. Excellent work, Sonya Tanae Fort. I’m truly looking forward to the next one." - EMD

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"The N Sta Odjabu – I See You exhibit at the Danforth Museum is a must see. Sonya Tanae Fort’s skillful use of black and white photography to tell a story is amazing. The journey to the island country of Cape Verde through the artists lens is truly captivating. You can almost hear the ocean waves and feel the hot sun on your face. Every image provides an insightful window into a beautiful and unique culture and people. Visiting this exhibit has motivated me to learn more about Cape Verdean culture and its deep roots, history and contributions to our Massachusetts and New England communities." - TM