The Gallery of Possibilities

Abstract

Intersectionality and Black feminist thought invite cartographic thinking. Black feminist thinkers evoke cartographic metaphors and imaginaries like intersectionality and the matrix of domination to better illuminate and challenge systems of power and oppression. Such cartographic frameworks contribute toward an evolving feminist mapping toolkit and a growing expanse of feminist interventions in mapping. Yet, there remains a need to engage with the commitments of Black feminist thought in everyday mapping practices. I introduce the gallery of possibilities as a tangible methodological mapping intervention that materializes Black feminist thought and cartographic metaphors by retooling existing cartographic techniques, specifically small multiples, grounding and contextualizing them in questions within Black feminist thought. By engaging with intersecting systems of power and their operation, and the multiplicity of ways power emerges, the gallery of possibilities destabilizes the stasis encoded in traditional mapping solutions. I outline five core elements of the gallery of possibilities and illustrate the method with a case study—a workshop series on feminist map icons. In sum, the gallery of possibilities, along with Black feminist thought, expands the range and availability of feminist mapping methods and tools. Together, the gallery of possibilities and Black feminist thought transform everyday contemporary mapping practice.