Short Summary
Kerry James Marshall is a renowned American artist known for his influential work in contemporary art, predominantly featuring African American subjects. His art explores themes of black identity, history, and culture, often challenging the underrepresentation of African Americans in Western art. Celebrated for his large-scale paintings, Marshall's work has been exhibited in major museums worldwide, solidifying his position as a pivotal figure in modern art.
Early Life & Education
Kerry James Marshall was born on October 17, 1955, in Birmingham, Alabama. Growing up in the racially charged atmosphere of the civil rights era deeply influenced his perspective and artistic vision. His family later moved to Los Angeles, where he attended Manual Arts High School. Marshall's passion for art was nurtured by his exposure to the Watts Riots and the Black Power Movement. He furthered his education at the Otis College of Art and Design, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1978. The cultural and political dynamics of his early years played a significant role in shaping his thematic focus on African American experiences.
Career Highlights
Marshall's career took off in the 1980s when he began creating works that challenged the traditional representations of African Americans in art. His 1993 painting "De Style" marked a turning point, showcasing his unique style and thematic focus. Marshall's art often features richly detailed, large-scale paintings that explore African American life and history. He has had solo exhibitions at prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. In 2016, his retrospective "Mastry" at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago further cemented his reputation as a leading contemporary artist.
Major Achievements
- Recipient of a MacArthur Fellowship in 1997, recognizing his innovative contributions to art.
- His painting "Past Times" sold for $21.1 million in 2018, setting a record for a living African American artist.
- Featured in the 2015 Venice Biennale, highlighting his global influence.
- Inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2019.
Famous Quotes
- "You can't be born in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1955 and grow up in South Central [Los Angeles] near the Black Panthers headquarters, and not feel like you've got some kind of social responsibility."
- "One of the things that I wanted to do was to have people look at black figures in a painting and not automatically assume that it's a genre painting."
Interesting Facts
- Marshall was inspired by a visit to the Watts Tower in Los Angeles during his youth.
- He has also worked in printmaking, sculpture, and installation art.
- Marshall taught at the School of Art and Design at the University of Illinois at Chicago for over a decade.
- He has been a vocal advocate for the inclusion of artists of color in art history curricula.
Legacy / Influence
Kerry James Marshall's work has had a profound impact on the art world, challenging traditional narratives and encouraging a reevaluation of African American representation in art. His influence extends beyond his paintings, as he has inspired a new generation of artists to explore themes of race, identity, and history. His dedication to representing black experiences has reshaped contemporary art's landscape, ensuring that diverse voices are recognized and celebrated.
FAQ
Q: Why is Kerry James Marshall famous?
A: He is famous for his impactful and innovative artworks that explore African American themes and challenge traditional art narratives.
Q: What is one of his most notable artworks?
A: "Past Times," a large-scale painting that sold for a record price for a living African American artist.
Q: Has he received any significant awards?
A: Yes, he received a MacArthur Fellowship in 1997, among other accolades.
