Multiplicity: A Journey into Blackness
As an artist deeply engaged in African American themes, the invitation to the Phillips Gallery's exhibit, "Multiplicity: Blackness in Contemporary American Collage," was a thrilling opportunity I couldn't pass up. Hosted by Aaro Bell, this private tour promised an intimate look at the dynamic world of collage art, featuring works that resonate with identity, culture, and history.
Upon arrival, our group of twenty African American artists and collectors was guided by a knowledgeable docent educator. Together, we explored four captivating pieces, each offering a unique narrative woven through the medium of collage. Yet, it was the artwork featured on the exhibit flyer, "Airborne Double" by Dereck Fordjour, that truly captured my imagination.
Standing before Fordjour's piece, I felt a surge of emotions as the repeated figures seemed to leap off the canvas, suspended in joyous motion. The layers of paper and paint created a rich tapestry of texture and color, inviting us to delve deeper into its intricate composition. As our docent encouraged us to express the emotions and sounds evoked by the collage, I was transported back to 1967. I recalled my time at West Virginia State College, where I first witnessed a first-year student from Florida take on the role of drum major, marking a significant moment in my artistic journey.
Fordjour's "Airborne Double" not only impressed me with its visual complexity but also stirred a personal connection, highlighting the power of art to bridge past and present experiences. This exhibit at the Phillips Gallery, with its celebration of multiplicity and blackness, was a rich canvas of stories, inviting viewers to reflect on their own narratives within the broader tapestry of African American culture.
As I left the gallery, I felt inspired by the creativity and resilience embodied in the works of my fellow artists. The exhibit reminded me of the importance of celebrating diversity in art and the endless possibilities that collage offers as a medium for storytelling. For anyone passionate about contemporary art and cultural identity, "Multiplicity" is a must-see journey into the vibrant world of blackness through collage.