A groundbreaking exhibition titled ‘A Superlative Palette: Contemporary Black Women Artists’ is currently on display at The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture, showcasing the work of 12 Black female artists. Curated by Dexter Wimberly, the exhibition is a vibrant celebration of these artists’ contributions to the contemporary art scene, marking the Gantt Center’s 50th anniversary with a notable first in North Carolina.
Foregrounding Intersectionality and Creativity
Featuring artists like Mickalene Thomas, Lauren Halsey, and Amy Sherald, the exhibition spans a variety of mediums, from large-scale canvases to mixed media portraits. Each piece vividly foregrounds the intersectionality of the artists’ identities, highlighting their roles as visual creators in the 21st century. Notably, works such as Thomas’ ‘Clarivel Face Forward Gazing’ and Halsey’s ‘We In Here’ offer visitors a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic perspectives these artists bring to contemporary art.
Challenging Historical Marginalization
Historically, Black female artists have faced marginalization within the art world. This exhibition seeks to address and correct that history by showcasing their significant achievements. Through the inclusion of pieces like Toyin Ojih Odutola’s ‘By Her Design’ and Deborah Roberts’ mixed media portraits, the exhibition not only celebrates these artists’ talents but also provides a platform for their powerful social commentary. Dexter Wimberly’s curatorial approach emphasizes the unique voice and perspective each artist brings, rather than drawing direct connections between their works.
The Human Experience of Art
Organizing ‘A Superlative Palette’ was an extensive process, involving collaboration with private collectors and galleries to bring these works together. Wimberly hopes that the exhibition will not only foster appreciation for the featured artists but also highlight the irreplaceable experience of viewing art in person. He believes that standing in front of an artwork allows for a connection that cannot be replicated digitally, offering visitors a meaningful and potentially transformative experience.
This exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and visibility in the arts. By showcasing the talents and perspectives of Black female artists, ‘A Superlative Palette’ not only celebrates their achievements but also contributes to a broader conversation about diversity and inclusion in the art world. As visitors explore the exhibition, they are invited to reflect on the complex narratives and rich histories that these artists bring to life through their work.
