Exploring the Radical Reboot of Black Presence in Art at Three London Shows
Claudette Johnson’s “Standing Figure with African Masks” at the National Portrait Gallery challenges Western art traditions by centering the Black figure. This exhibition, “The Time is Always Now: Artists Reframe the Black Figure,” celebrates the complexity of Black life through a range of contemporary artworks from Black artists in the US and the UK. The show interrogates visibility and representation while exploring themes of race and identity in a contemporary context.
Barbara Walker’s “Vanishing Point” and Kimathi Donkor’s historical paintings reimagine Black subjects in art, while Noah Davis, Lubaina Himid, and Michael Armitage delve into grim histories and recent upheavals. Amy Sherald and Kerry James Marshall challenge racial categorization through their unique approaches to depicting Blackness. The exhibition also highlights the multifaceted “Black everyday” through works by Denzil Forrester, Hurvin Anderson, and Njideka Akunyili Crosby.
In London’s other institutions, complementary exhibitions like “Soulscapes” at the Dulwich Picture Gallery and “Entangled Pasts” at the Royal Academy further explore the representation of Black identities in art and history. These shows provoke critical conversations around colonialism, slavery, and the ongoing impact of these histories. Artists like Hew Locke, Lubaina Himid, and John Akomfrah engage with the complexities of the past and present through their powerful installations and artworks.
Through these exhibitions, institutions like the National Portrait Gallery, Dulwich Picture Gallery, and the Royal Academy are beginning to address and challenge the enduring legacies of colonialism in their collections. By showcasing diverse perspectives and narratives, these shows offer a platform for reflection, dialogue, and a deeper understanding of the complexities of Black identity and history.
Source
Naz Baydar graduated from Middle East Technical University with a degree in Product Design. She furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Art Direction at Elisava in Barcelona. Her work blends art direction, multimedia narratives, and design to craft innovative and transformative experiences. Naz is passionate about creating visual stories that evoke strong emotions and deliver meaningful impact. In addition to her work, she has a deep interest in philosophy and literature, which continuously inspire and enrich her creative process.