This work is quite collaborative, in the sense that two different themes are brought together. For example the patterns spread over the artwork in contrast to the modern gangster's that he has painted. In my mind I believe that the images are representing how the Gangsters of america have gained enough power through drugs and corruption to be viewed as royalty and 'kings' of their blocks and the run down streets of the cities.
Identify intertextuality in Kehinde's work?
Intertextuality - Intertextuality refers to the linkages across texts or discourse events. The meaning of any text or utterance is shaped by what has come before it, as well as in anticipation of future responses.
Interextuality is present in Kehinde's art in the way he links both the themes of physical wealth and social wealth, what I mean by this is the positioning these 'Gangsters' have in their society is quite similar to the patriotic generals that where painted in these types of artworks in the 17th century.
The colors sported by these 'Gangsters' are identifiably 'CRIPS' and 'BLOODS' colors. In one painting by Kehinde there is one male 'Gangster' holding a staf pointing to himself, in a way that he is 'reping' his colors.
The images of the classic american 'gangsters' of today where thought up through Kehindes childhood. He grew up around a rough area of harlem (125'st) and returned to ask residents of the areas to pose for his artwork in the theme of Tiepolo whilst dressed in streetwear/hip hop style.
Pluralism in Kehindes work
Pluralism present in Kehinde's work is identifiable in the way he references artist Tiepolo in his work. The way the work is presented is post- modern however, with a historical edge. The sizes of the men painted are oversized in contrast to the canvas size, which gives off a more 'larger than life' vibe, giving the african american men more power- maybe suggesting that their power has grown since the days of these painting styles?
No comments:
Post a Comment