Day: Aug 28, 2022

Finding Affinity in The Black Fantastical

Art Exhibition, Artists, Chris Ofili, Creativity, Fantastical art, Local inspiration & activities, Mixed media, Paintings

I saw the In the Black Fantastic exhibit at the Haywood Gallery. A big show of artists from the African Diaspora. Including Chriss Ofili, Nick Cave, Hew, Locke and others. Below is the full list of artists at the In the Black Fantastic

Artists at In The Black Fantastic

  • Wangechi Muto
  • Lina Iris Viktor
  • Hew Locke
  • Nick Cave
  • Tabita Rezaire
  • Rashaad Newsome
  • Ellen Gallagher
  • Chris Ofili
  • Cauleen Smith
  • Kara Walker

I was excited to feel a sense of affinity developing as I saw the work of these artists. That sense of like mind arose because many of these famous artists used gold or gold leaf, some used gems or Swarovski crystals. I saw gemstones sprinkled and how some used raffia trim as fringing on the edge of a painting. Others used fringing within the painting.
I loved the idea of fantastical art as it is an escapist emancipatory healing kind of space to work within as an artist.

I get a sense of hope, but it is not blind hope. It is the kind of surreal conceptualisation of the future that recognises the hurt that has gone before in a beautiful way.

  • Swarovski Crystals are used to let eyes sparkle
  • Mahogany and crystals used
  • Interesting texture with gems
  • Raffia trim on artwork with 24K gold
  • 24 karat gold, string texture

In the Black Fantastic is showing at the Haywood gallery London until 18th September 2022. It is a little awkward to get there. The nearest entrance is on the south side of the Waterloo bridge,