Exhibition view, The New Museum of Contemporary Art, New York
“Fly Paper” explores the intersection of personal memories and collective cultural experiences. The film is a tribute to the photographer Roy DeCarava, and it captures a dreamlike journey through a collage of images that blend reality and imagination. Set against the backdrop of Harlem, and Brooklyn, the film weaves together fragments of everyday life, art, and music, creating a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.
"Double Conscience" by Kahlil Joseph
Exhibition view, The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles
“Double Conscience” by Kahlil Joseph is an immersive video installation that explores the duality of African American identity through a multi-layered visual and auditory experience. Inspired by W.E.B. Du Bois’s concept of double consciousness, Joseph’s work delves into the complexities of self-perception and the societal perception of Black individuals in America. This piece is a dynamic blend of cinema, music, and performance, reflecting the fragmented nature of identity and the continuous negotiation between personal and collective narratives.
"Ishmael in the Garden" by Adam Pendleton
Exhibition view, Art Basel: Basel, Miami Beach
Adam Pendleton’s “Ishmael in the Garden” is a thought-provoking artwork that sits within his broader exploration of identity, language, and the complexities of historical and cultural narratives. Known for his conceptual and often abstract works, Pendleton engages with themes of race, social justice, and the reinterpretation of historical events through a contemporary lens. “Ishmael in the Garden” aligns with his interest in recontextualizing literary and cultural references, creating a dialogue between the past and present. The piece reflects Pendleton’s ongoing project of exploring Blackness and belonging, particularly within spaces that have been traditionally exclusionary.
“Ruby Nell Sales” by Adam Pendleton
Exhibition view, Whitney Museum of American Art, New York
“Ruby Nell Sales” by Adam Pendleton is a work that fits within Pendleton’s broader exploration of identity, history, and the complexities of the African American experience. Adam Pendleton is known for his conceptual approach, often blending text, abstraction, and historical references to challenge and redefine cultural narratives. His works are deeply rooted in exploring themes of race, justice, and the power dynamics embedded in societal structures. The artwork “Ruby Nell Sales” reflects Pendleton’s ongoing engagement with figures who have made significant contributions to civil rights and social justice, bringing their stories into contemporary conversations.
