The winter season might be freezing, but let’s heat it up with some fantastic Black art exhibitions you won’t want to miss.
From thought-provoking historical perspectives to contemporary expressions of identity, these Black art exhibitions will surely leave a lasting impact on anyone who views them.
Let’s look at some of the must-see shows this winter.
We Contain Multitudes
Location: Studio Museum, Harlem
Duration: Until January 15, 2023
One of this season’s must-see exhibitions is ‘We Contain Multitudes.’
It features works by diverse Black artists like Naima Green, E. Jane, and Sable Elyse Smith.
The show’s theme is the complexity and multiplicity of Black identities
It highlights the various dimensions of Blackness that are often ignored or overlooked in mainstream representations.
From intimate portraits to assertive abstracts, each piece speaks to the emotions, experiences, and perspectives that define us.
Deconstructing Power: W.E.B. DuBois at the 1900 World’s Fair
Location: Smithsonian American Art Museum
Duration: Until May 29, 2023
This is among the most intriguing Black art exhibitions you can experience this winter.
The exhibition looks at the roles of Black leaders like W.E.B. DuBois in shaping the representation of Black people at the start of the 20th century.
This exhibition offers a glimpse into the life and work of an influential historical African American figure through photos, documents, and more.
The exhibition also shows how DuBois and others used the 1900 World’s Fair as a platform to challenge racist narratives and put forward a more accurate and empowering image of Black people.
Afro-Atlantic Histories
Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Duration: Until September 10, 2023
‘Afro-Atlantic Histories’ explores the cultural, political, and economic connections between Africa, Europe, and the Americas in the 19th and 20th centuries.
It features works from many essential Black artists like Robert S. Duncanson, Frederick Douglass, and Henry O. Tanner.
From vibrant paintings to striking sculptures, ‘Afro-Atlantic Histories’ is a must-see for those interested in the history and art of the African diaspora.
Visions in Black 2023
Location: Studio Museum, Harlem
Duration: February 2-25, 2023
‘Visions in Black 2023’ showcases the works of emerging and established Black artists.
It’s among the few Black art exhibitions that highlight the breadth and depth of the African-American art scene.
Featured artists include Mickalene Thomas, Kahlil Joseph, and Lyle Ashton Harris.
Every artist pushes the boundaries of what it means to be Black in the 21st century.
Viewing their art is sure to spark some critical conversations.
New Work: Toyin Ojih Odutola
Location: Jack Shainman Gallery, New York City
Duration: Until January 22, 2023
Toyin Ojih Odutola is among today’s most exciting Black artists.
Her exhibition, ‘New Work,’ explores race, identity, and class through the lens of portraiture.
The Nigerian-American artist uses her tools to craft highly detailed, lifelike images.
She draws inspiration from the works of Octavia E. Butler and Dionne Brand to craft distinct artworks.
Garrett Bradley: American Rhapsody
Location: New Museum, New York City
Duration: Until February 19, 2023
Garrett Bradley is a filmmaker and artist whose works include documentaries, narratives, and experimental filmmaking.
Her works explore the intersections of race, class, and gender and how they relate to the broader American experience.
‘Garrett Bradley: American Rhapsody’ illuminates various aspects of the Black experience in America.
Through Bradley’s films, photographs and installations, we see how Black people are often denied the chance to tell their own stories.
The Dirty South: Contemporary Art, Material Culture, and the Sonic Impulse
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
Duration: Until February 5, 2023
‘The Dirty South’ focuses on the contemporary art scene in the South.
It reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage and the ongoing struggle for racial justice.
The exhibition includes works by artists such as Rashida Bumbray and Jeffrey Gibson.
Their works offer a distinct perspective on the South’s cultural heritage and its role in shaping the present and future.
Thaddeus Mosley: Forest
Location: Baltimore Museum of Art, Los Angeles
Duration: Until January 21, 2023
‘Thaddeus Mosley: Forest’ is among the standout Black art exhibitions you will see all winter.
The artist, Thaddeus Mosley, uses elements of the natural world, like branches, twigs, and leaves to craft inventive abstract forms.
His works offer a compelling look at the intersection of art and nature and explore the relationship between humans and nature.
Don’t Miss These Black Art Exhibitions
The winter season is heating up with an array of outstanding Black art exhibitions.
From the nature-inspired works of Thaddeus Mosley to the thought-provoking pieces of Garrett Bradley, there’s something for everyone.
So, grab your coat, scarf, and gloves, and make your way to one of these must-see exhibitions.
And with so many talented Black artists, you’ll leave the exhibitions feeling inspired, empowered, and proud.
