Kehinde Wiley

Definition

Kehinde Wiley is a contemporary American painter known for his vibrant, large-scale portraits that challenge the traditional representation of African American identity in art. His work often features young Black men and women posed in the style of classical portraiture, creating a striking juxtaposition that highlights issues of race, power, and visibility in contemporary society. Wiley's art is deeply rooted in postcolonial theory, as it critiques the Eurocentric narratives that have dominated art history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kehinde Wiley gained widespread recognition after painting President Barack Obama's official portrait for the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in 2018.
2. His portraits often incorporate intricate patterns inspired by textiles and decorative arts from various cultures, adding layers of meaning to his subjects.
3. Wiley's work subverts historical art conventions by placing people of color in positions of power and dignity traditionally reserved for white figures in classical paintings.
4. He was born in Los Angeles in 1977 to Nigerian immigrant parents and his heritage significantly influences his artistic vision and themes.
5. Wiley established the Kehinde Wiley Foundation to support emerging artists and promote diversity within the art world.

Review Questions

• How does Kehinde Wiley's approach to portraiture challenge traditional representations in art?
  • Kehinde Wiley's approach to portraiture challenges traditional representations by depicting young Black men and women in poses reminiscent of classical European portraits. This contrast emphasizes the absence of Black figures in historical narratives while asserting their presence and importance in contemporary society. By placing these individuals in positions of power and dignity, Wiley reclaims agency for marginalized communities and invites viewers to reconsider the cultural significance of representation in art.
• Discuss the role of postcolonial theory in understanding Kehinde Wiley's work.
  • Postcolonial theory plays a significant role in understanding Kehinde Wiley's work as it critiques the dominant Eurocentric narratives within art history. His paintings serve as a form of resistance against colonial legacies by presenting Black subjects in contexts that reflect their agency, beauty, and individuality. This approach highlights how colonial histories continue to influence contemporary perceptions of race and identity, urging viewers to engage with the complexities of representation in a postcolonial world.
• Evaluate how Kehinde Wiley's artistic practices contribute to discussions about identity politics in contemporary art.
  • Kehinde Wiley's artistic practices contribute significantly to discussions about identity politics by centering the experiences of marginalized groups, particularly through his portrayal of Black individuals. His work not only challenges stereotypes but also asserts the value and complexity of Black identity within broader cultural conversations. By positioning his subjects against vibrant backdrops and historical references, Wiley encourages viewers to confront their assumptions about race, power, and representation, thus fostering a deeper understanding of how identity shapes artistic expression and societal perceptions.

Related terms

Postcolonialism: An intellectual stance that critiques the legacy and ongoing impacts of colonialism on culture, politics, and identity.

Representation: The way in which individuals or groups are depicted in art, literature, and media, often influencing public perception and societal norms.

Identity Politics: Political positions based on the interests and perspectives of social groups with which people identify, particularly marginalized communities.