Thomas, Mickalene
Mickalene Thomas
African American, (b. 1971- )
About the Artist
The works of New York-based artist Mickalene Thomas are largely informed by her identity as an African American woman and feminist, as well as her extensive knowledge of art historical traditions. She works in a variety of media, including photography, video, screenprinting and mixed-media assemblage, but she is best known for her elaborate paintings incorporating rhinestones, acrylic and enamel paint. Thomas uses this material to communicate complex perspectives on womanhood and beauty, with particular interest in the acts of dressing up, masking flaws, or 'beautifying.' Her 'Wrestler Portraits' draw on conventions of classical portraiture, pop culture, and 70s aesthetics. The emotions of the women in these closely-cropped images are powerful, yet ambiguous, allowing viewers to speculate as to the nature of their dramatic expressions.
Works
Exhibitions
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