Post-Black Art (1990s – present)
Post-Black Art (1990s – present) means that artists are no longer compelled to create works that are protest or ethnic. 2000 census showed a larger segment of the American population marked other for those of multiple ethnicities or rejection of racial labeling altogether.
New Millenium art still shows racial pride and identity – allow “multiple racial, gender, and ethnic influences to converge in their art”
- Kehinde Wiley, (1977-) portraitist – looks to European male portraits of the 16th, 17th, and 18th century – kings, military, gentry, royalty and portrays them as successful privileged Black men, some known celebrities. Uses gilt frame, patterned backdrops inspired by key Western European art eras such as the Italian Renaissance and French Baroque. Challenges the concept of Black masculinity as Black men are often equated with fear and violence in America.
- Napoleon Leading the Army over the Alps, 2005 – based on Jacques-Louis David’s Napoleon Crossing the Saint Bernard Pass.Model is a young Black man from south-central LA. He is seated in a power position in the grand manner of portraiture. https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/opencollection/objects/169803
