Kehinde Wiley

Place: Los Angeles

Born: 1977

Biography:

Kehinde Wiley is an American artist born in Los Angeles in 1977. He is known for his naturalistic paintings of Black people that reference the work of Old Master paintings. In 2017, Wiley was commissioned to paint former President Barack Obama's portrait for the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. The Columbus Museum of Art hosted an exhibition of his work in 2007 and describes his paintings as 'heroic portraits which address the image and status of young African-American men in contemporary culture.'

Early Life and Career

Wiley's interest in art began at a young age, and he went on to study painting at the San Francisco Art Institute. He later earned his MFA from the Yale University School of Art. Wiley's work is characterized by its use of vibrant colors and bold compositions, which challenge traditional representations of Black people in art.

Artistic Style and Influences

Wiley's paintings are influenced by a range of artistic traditions, including African art, European portraiture, and American realism. His use of naturalism and realism creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy in his portraits. Wiley's work is also characterized by its use of symbolism and allegory, which add depth and complexity to his paintings. Some of Wiley's notable works include Christian Martyr Tarcisius, a painting that showcases his skill in realism, and Napoleon Leading the Army Over the Alps, a work that challenges traditional representations of power and leadership. Wiley's paintings can be found in the collections of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, the Columbus Museum of Art, and other institutions.

Awards and Recognition

Wiley has received numerous awards and recognition for his work, including being named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2018. His paintings have also been exhibited at the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Studio Museum in Harlem, and other institutions.

• Wiley's work can be found on Wikioo.org, which features a range of his paintings, including Christian Martyr Tarcisius and Napoleon Leading the Army Over the Alps.
• The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery has a collection of Wiley's work, which can be viewed on their website.
• Wiley's biography can also be found on Wikipedia, which provides an overview of his life and career.

In conclusion, Kehinde Wiley is a contemporary American artist who has made significant contributions to the art world. His paintings challenge traditional representations of Black people in art and offer a fresh perspective on the medium. Through his use of naturalism, realism, symbolism, and allegory, Wiley creates complex and thought-provoking works that continue to inspire and intrigue audiences.