Kehinde Wiley

Definition

Kehinde Wiley is a contemporary African-American painter known for his vibrant, large-scale portraits that celebrate Black identity and challenge traditional art historical narratives. His work often juxtaposes classical portraiture with modern subjects, inviting viewers to reconsider representation and the politics of visibility in art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wiley gained international fame when he was commissioned to paint President Barack Obama's official portrait, which further highlighted the importance of representation in contemporary art.
2. His signature style includes the use of ornate backgrounds and vibrant colors, often inspired by historical European art but populated with contemporary Black figures.
3. Wiley's work addresses themes of race, gender, and class, challenging viewers to confront the absence and misrepresentation of Black individuals in the canon of Western art history.
4. He conducts casting calls in urban areas to find models from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing authenticity and accessibility in the portrayal of Black subjects.
5. Wiley's artistic practice is rooted in a dialogue with art history, as he reinterprets classical poses and styles to create a space for contemporary Black identity.

Review Questions

• How does Kehinde Wiley's work challenge traditional notions of portraiture in the context of postcolonial art?
  • Kehinde Wiley's work challenges traditional notions of portraiture by reimagining classical European styles and subjects through a contemporary lens that centers Black identity. By featuring models from diverse backgrounds posed in regal stances against ornate backgrounds, he subverts historical narratives that often exclude or misrepresent people of color. This approach not only elevates the subjects within his paintings but also questions the very foundations of representation in art history.
• In what ways does Kehinde Wiley's focus on representation contribute to discussions about queer and non-binary identities within postcolonial contexts?
  • Kehinde Wiley’s work contributes to discussions about queer and non-binary identities by celebrating a wide range of subjects that reflect the diversity within the Black community. His portraits include individuals who challenge traditional gender norms, highlighting their stories and experiences in a manner that affirms their existence within both contemporary culture and art history. By showcasing these identities prominently, Wiley not only enriches the narrative surrounding representation but also aligns with broader movements advocating for inclusivity and visibility in postcolonial discourse.
• Evaluate how Kehinde Wiley's artistic approach addresses neocolonial power structures through his depiction of Black figures in classical poses.
  • Kehinde Wiley's artistic approach effectively critiques neocolonial power structures by reclaiming agency for Black figures traditionally marginalized or omitted in art history. By placing contemporary Black subjects in historically significant poses often reserved for European elites, Wiley confronts the lingering effects of colonialism and systemic racism. This juxtaposition serves as a powerful statement about ownership and representation, as he reframes the narrative around power dynamics inherent in both art production and societal structures.

Related terms

Portraiture: A genre of art that represents a specific person, capturing their likeness and personality, often highlighting their social status or identity.

Representation: The way in which individuals or groups are depicted in art, literature, and media, impacting societal perceptions and understanding of identity.

Cultural appropriation: The act of taking or borrowing elements from one culture by members of another culture, often raising issues of power dynamics and identity.