“Minority Art: Inspiration, Obligation”

Art Exhibit Reflects Inspiration and Obligation

University Park, Illinois, February 9, 2011 - “Minority Art: Inspiration, Obligation” is the featured exhibit, discussion, and reception at Governors State University in celebration of African American History Month. The event will be held on February 28, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., with remarks at 7 p.m.
This art exhibition will feature the work of world-renowned artist Kehinde Wiley. The artwork is on loan from the Rhona Hoffman Gallery in Chicago. Wiley’s portraits were initially based on photographs taken of young men on the streets of Harlem. The models, dressed in their everyday clothing, are asked to assume poses depicted in paintings or sculptures found in Western Art History. Wiley’s art also includes an international view with models found in urban landscapes throughout the world – such as Mumbai, Dakar, and Rio de Janeiro.
In addition to Wiley, “Minority Art: Inspiration, Obligation” also includes the works of regional artists who are African American, or who are doing artwork about the African American experience.
An informal discussion will address issues faced by minority artists, from finding inspiration in their minority status and culture to the pitfalls of feeling creatively stuck or obligated to produce art on limited subjects.
Although African American art is the focus of this event, the discussion topics are relevant to other minority groups and pertinent to the experience of many. Everyone is welcome and the event and reception are free and open to the public.
The Visual Arts Gallery and Student Affairs and Academic Services are sponsors of the event, which will be held at the Visual Arts Gallery of Governors State University