For too long, the Black figure in art has been confined by stereotypes and limited narratives. “The Time is Always Now: Artists Reframe the Black Figure,” a groundbreaking exhibition curated by Ekow Eshun, shatters these tired tropes. This powerful showcase at the National Portrait Gallery throws a spotlight on 26 Black contemporary artists from the African diaspora, illuminating the profound impact and remarkable variety within Black art.
A Call to Action in the Title
The exhibition’s title, “The Time is Always Now,” draws inspiration from a pivotal essay by James Baldwin, a champion of the American Civil Rights Movement. It echoes Baldwin’s urgent call for progress, rejecting the notion of waiting for a future of racial equality. “The Time is Always Now” underscores the vital role Black artists play in shaping the artistic landscape today.
Artists in Demand: Who’s Who
Public interest in the exhibition is evident through online searches. Here are some of the leading figures:
Amy Sherald: Renowned for captivating portraits, including the widely celebrated Michelle Obama portrait for the National Portrait Gallery.
Kerry James Marshall: Explores race and identity through thought-provoking paintings, often utilizing a unique “kromekote collage” technique incorporating Black magazine clippings.
Lubaina Himid: A pioneer in British Black art, known for her powerful collages that challenge historical narratives.
Michael Armitage: Creates vibrant paintings that address social and political issues in Africa.
Toyin Ojih Odutola: Employs intricate beadwork techniques to craft captivating portraits that defy traditional representation.
These are just a few of the many voices and artistic expressions that enrich this exhibition.
Beyond Representation: Absence Speaks Volumes
“The Time is Always Now” goes beyond simply depicting Black figures. It delves into the historical absence of Black representation in Western art. By acknowledging this gap, the exhibition invites viewers to consider the power dynamics at play in the creation of art.
The artists don’t shy away from complexity. Their works explore themes of identity, lineage, resilience, and the inherent joy of Black life. Social and political commentary takes center stage as well, with artists challenging stereotypes and sparking crucial conversations about race and representation.
A Tapestry of Artistic Techniques
The exhibition embraces a variety of artistic media, prominently featuring painting, drawing, and sculpture. Several artists push the boundaries of traditional mediums. For example, Kerry James Marshall’s aforementioned “kromekote collage” technique adds a unique dimension to his paintings.
Beyond the Gallery Walls: A Lasting Impact
“The Time is Always Now” has garnered significant acclaim, praised for its contribution to a more inclusive art world. The exhibition challenges dominant narratives and empowers Black artists to tell their stories on their terms.
Key Takeaways: Why This Matters
The Importance of Diverse Voices: “The Time is Always Now” compels the art world to embrace a wider range of voices and perspectives. By showcasing the talent and creativity of Black artists, the exhibition pushes for a more inclusive future for art.
Reclaiming the Narrative: Black artists are actively reclaiming the narrative around representation. Their works challenge historical stereotypes and offer nuanced portrayals of Black life.
Art as a Catalyst for Change: The exhibition demonstrates the power of art to address social issues and spark necessary conversations.
A Legacy of Inspiration
“The Time is Always Now” is more than an exhibition; it’s a call to action. It encourages viewers to engage with the complexities of race and representation in both art and society. The exhibition’s lasting legacy lies in its potential to inspire future generations of artists and contribute to a more equitable art world.
Looking Deeper: Resources for Further Exploration
Those interested in learning more can explore these resources:
The National Portrait Gallery website offers a dedicated page for the exhibition with detailed information and artist profiles: National Portrait Gallery Website [invalid URL removed]
The exhibition catalog provides an in-depth analysis of the artworks and the themes explored by the artists.
Online searches for the artists mentioned can lead to further exploration of their individual styles and creative practices.
“The Time is Always Now” stands as a powerful testament to the artistry and resilience of the Black community. It compels us to confront the biases of the past and celebrate the richness and diversity of Black art in the present.
FAQs:-
What is “The Time is Always Now: Artists Reframe the Black Figure”?
This exhibition, held at the National Portrait Gallery in London (2024), showcased works by contemporary African diasporic artists.
What type of art is featured in the exhibition?
The exhibition primarily focuses on portraiture and figurative art, but the styles range from painting and drawing to sculpture.
What’s the significance of the title “The Time is Always Now”?
The title draws inspiration from a James Baldwin quote, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for racial equality and the importance of Black representation now more than ever.
Who are some of the artists featured in the exhibition?
The exhibition includes works by established and emerging artists, including:
Michael Armitage
Lubaina Himid
Kerry James Marshall
Toyin Ojih Odutola
Amy Sherald
What are some of the themes explored in the exhibition?
Reframing representation: Challenging traditional depictions of Black figures and celebrating their complexity and beauty.
Black identity: Exploring themes of race, history, and lived experiences.
Social and political commentary: Highlighting ongoing issues faced by Black communities.
Can I still see the “The Time is Always Now” exhibition?
While the physical exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery has concluded, there might be ways to experience it virtually.
The National Portrait Gallery website: https://www.npg.org.uk/whatson/event-root/members-events/members-afternoon-ttian might offer a virtual tour or online resources related to the exhibit.
YouTube channels: Search for channels associated with the National Portrait Gallery or art critics who might have reviewed the exhibition.
Are there any other exhibitions exploring similar themes?
Search online for upcoming exhibitions focusing on Black artists or contemporary figuration.
Museums often have online calendars listing current and future exhibitions.
“The Time is Always Now” on YouTube: Beyond Reviews
Look for videos by Black art critics or YouTubers discussing the importance of representation and the artists featured in the exhibition.
Channels dedicated to art history or contemporary art movements might offer a broader context for understanding the exhibition’s significance.
Remember:
“The Time is Always Now” sparked conversations about Black representation in art. It’s a call to action to explore diverse artistic voices and challenge the status quo.
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