Photo By Gail
Sweeping abstract flows of paint drench torsos and limbs in Illana Savdie’s Cow (2023), sowing perceptual confusion. The effect on the viewer is placelessness and near-disorientation, which the artist uses to disrupt power dynamics. She allows multiple cultural, contexts and inheritances to simultaneously smash into and balance one another, resulting in entirely new formations. Continue reading Modern Art Monday Presents: Cow By Illana Savdie
Photos By Gail
Yinka Shonibare’s surreal and visually unforgettable sculpture Headless Man Trying to Drink (2005) brings together biting social commentary, clever visual humor, and a rich exploration of post-colonial identity — all in one absurdly tragicomic gesture.
Crafted from fiberglass and wood, with clothing made from the artist’s signature Dutch wax-printed cotton, the life-sized headless figure leans forward, mouthlessly attempting to drink from a stylized water pump and fountain made of polymer-gypsum. Of course, without a head, this feat is impossible — which is exactly the point.
Continue reading Modern Art Monday Presents: Headless Man Trying to Drink By Yinka Shonibare
Photos By Gail
Designers Jean-Yves Kouassi Yebieyin and Gaston Ouedraogo capture the unique history and culture of West African country Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d’Ivoire, with their brand partnership Djainin. The brand name translates to “Jeans” in Nouchi, a language that developed to bridge language differences in Ivorian cities.
Continue reading Eye On Design: Marie-Thérèse Houphouët-Boigny Print Ensemble By Djainin
Photos By Gail
Designer Grace Wales Bonner states, “the aim with Wales Bonner is to bring Afro-Atlantic Spirit to the idea of European luxury and elevate Black representation within fashion.” This white wool Tuxedo (2017) is inspired by the Pan-Africanist leader Haile Selassie’s crowning as emperor of Ethiopia in 1930. Continue reading Eye On Design: Wool Men’s Tuxedo By Grace Wales Bonner
Photos By Gail
Artist and designer Beau McCall uses buttons to tell stories “about African-American life, love and experience,” noting “buttons are universal. There are those that express class differences, political views, and cultural issues.” His jacket, The Revolution (1995) communicates black American Afrocentricity through the colors of the pan African flag.
Continue reading Eye On Design: The Revolution Levis Denim Jacket By Beau McCall