NEW YORK—At Jack Shainman, Hank Willis Thomas’s new show explores race and identity through pop culture symbolism. After curating a centennial tribute to Gordon Parks at Howard Greenberg Gallery, Glenn Ligon is exhibiting his own profound neon works at Luhring Augustine. And Mickalene Thomas’s “Origin of the Universe,” is the Brooklyn Museum’s marquee fall exhibit.
In galleries and museums throughout New York City, there is currently an opportunity to view art by a diverse group of prominent African American artists exploring a range of mediums. The group includes some of the most aesthetically experimental and intellectually curious artists working in the contemporary art world.
In addition, “Now Dig This! Art and Black Los Angeles 1960-1980,” a survey of the “vital legacy of the African American arts community in Los Angeles” that includes work by Melvin Edwards, David Hammons, Betye Saar, John Outterbridge and Noah Purifoy is at MoMA PS1 through March 11, 2012.
Update: Post-Hurricane Sandy some galleries may be temporarily closed or have modified hours and exhibition dates. Check with each location before visiting.
The must see solo exhibits include:
Mark Bradford
At Sikkema Jenkins through Dec. 15, 2012
Advancing his painted mixed-media aesthetic, new large-scale canvases by Bradford evoke abstract map grids.
Leonardo Drew
At Pace Prints through Nov. 3, 2012
Working with Pace Paper, Drew developed innovative printing processes to create a series of soulful, layered works inspired by nature.
Glenn Ligon
“Neon” at Luhring Augustine through Dec. 8, 2012
A showcase of Ligon’s thought-provoking neon installations “that push his practice into new, unexpected territories while remaining in dialogue with his text paintings.” (Also shown at top of page.)
Hank Willis Thomas
“What Goes Without Saying” at Jack Shainman through Nov. 17, 2012
An exploration of identity and race through advertising concepts and symbolism embedded in popular culture and political promotion
Mickalene Thomas
“Origin of the Universe” at the Brooklyn Museum through Jan. 20, 2013
A solo exhibit of new paintings that explore black female identity, sexuality and beauty and evoke power and femininity.
All Photos © Arts Observer
Hi i am a self taught pointillism painter and i would like to know if your taking any new submissions thanks
Thank you for your interest. Arts Observer doesn’t take “submissions,” but using the Contact page on this site you are welcome to share information about upcoming exhibits, shows and events and if the information piques my interest I will certainly consider covering.