Kehinde Wiley

Definition

Kehinde Wiley is a contemporary American painter known for his vibrant, large-scale portraits of African American subjects, often set against ornate, patterned backgrounds. His work challenges traditional representations in portraiture by inserting Black figures into the grand historical narrative of Western art, making a powerful statement about identity, race, and representation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wiley gained national recognition after painting former President Barack Obama's official portrait for the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in 2018.
2. His portraits often depict subjects posing in the manner of classical European portraiture, subverting expectations by featuring people of color.
3. Wiley frequently incorporates intricate floral and decorative patterns in his backgrounds, which reflect his interest in both art history and contemporary culture.
4. He was born in Los Angeles in 1977 to Nigerian parents and has lived and worked in various global cities, influencing his diverse artistic perspective.
5. Wiley's work engages with themes of power, visibility, and historical representation, making a significant contribution to discussions around identity politics in contemporary art.

Review Questions

• How does Kehinde Wiley's work redefine traditional notions of portraiture?
  • Kehinde Wiley redefines traditional portraiture by showcasing African American figures in poses reminiscent of classic European paintings. This juxtaposition challenges the historical exclusion of Black individuals from such prestigious representations. By placing these subjects in regal stances against ornate backgrounds, Wiley not only elevates their status but also invites viewers to reconsider the narratives that have shaped art history.
• Discuss the significance of Wiley's choice of background patterns and how they relate to his overall message.
  • Wiley's choice of intricate background patterns serves multiple purposes. They create a striking visual contrast with the subjects while also connecting to various cultural motifs. These patterns often reflect both African heritage and Western decorative traditions, illustrating the interplay between cultures. This fusion emphasizes the complexities of identity and representation, reinforcing his message that Black figures deserve to be celebrated within historical contexts.
• Evaluate the impact of Kehinde Wiley's work on contemporary discussions surrounding identity politics and representation in art.
  • Kehinde Wiley's work significantly impacts contemporary discussions on identity politics by challenging entrenched narratives about race and representation in art. His portraits confront viewers with the visibility of marginalized communities within traditional frameworks. By integrating themes of empowerment and historical revisionism, Wiley's art invites deeper dialogues about inclusivity and the necessity of diverse perspectives in understanding both history and contemporary society.

Related terms

Portraiture: A genre of painting or photography that captures the likeness of a person or group, often highlighting their personality and identity.

Cultural Appropriation: The adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture, often without permission or understanding, and can be seen as exploitative.

Neo-Baroque: An art movement that draws inspiration from the Baroque style, characterized by dramatic expression and elaborate ornamentation, often used in modern contexts.