Spoken word performance with Vanessa German, Rizesista and Kellee Maize. "That's some nappy headed hoes there, I'm going to tell you that," Imus said during the 10-second exchange that ignited a national debate over racist and misogynistic language and lyrics.

Have you ever really, I mean really seen a Nappy Headed Hoe?

Well you will in the new exhibition by visual and performance artist Vanessa German. "Nappy Headed Hoe's and other relevant controversies" will run till the end of May at the Clay Penn, 5111 Penn avenue, with Opening Reception from 7-9 Friday, May 4th. Open after reception by appointment by calling 412-951-6133 or e-mail ljmclayhotmail.com

"Nappy Headed Hoe's and other relevant controversies" receives an edge of inspiration from the comments of shock jock don imus. Vanessa German uses mixed media sculpture and spoken word to explore the hidden dirge of meaning within his statement, and those words of his producer Bernard McGuirk. It was McGuirk who first used the term "hoes" while discussing the college women's championship game between Rutgers and Tennessee. Imus described the Rutgers team, which includes eight black women, as tattooed "rough girls" during the April 4 broadcast. "Some hardcore hoes," replied McGuirk. McGuirk also reffered to the girls as "wannabe's and jiggaboo's"