The Modernization of Portrait Painting by Kehinde Wiley

Explore how Kehinde Wiley has revolutionized portrait painting in the modern era. Discover the top 5 artworks that showcase his unique style and cultural impact on contemporary art.

Kehinde Wiley was born in Los Angeles in 1977. He grew up in South Central, a neighborhood known for its vibrant culture and diverse community. Wiley’s early exposure to art came from his mother, who enrolled him in art classes at a young age. This early education sparked a lifelong passion for painting. Wiley’s work is characterized by its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and the juxtaposition of contemporary subjects with classical portraiture. He often selects young Black men and women as his subjects, placing them in poses inspired by Old Master paintings. This contrast highlights the absence of Black figures in historical art and challenges the viewer’s perception of power and beauty.

His most famous commission came in 2018 when he was chosen to paint the official portrait of President Barack Obama for the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. This portrait, which features Obama seated against a backdrop of foliage and flowers, received widespread acclaim and solidified Wiley’s place in art history.

Wiley’s approach to portrait painting is revolutionary in several ways. Firstly, he addresses the historical underrepresentation of Black figures in Western art. By placing contemporary Black subjects in classical poses, he creates a dialogue between past and present, questioning traditional notions of power and identity.

Secondly, Wiley’s use of vibrant patterns and backgrounds draws from various cultural influences, including African textiles and hip-hop culture. This blend of elements not only modernizes the aesthetic of portrait painting but also celebrates cultural diversity.

Thirdly, Wiley’s technique of street casting, where he selects subjects directly from the streets, adds an element of realism and authenticity to his work. This method allows him to capture a wide range of expressions and personalities, making his portraits more relatable and dynamic.

Lastly, Wiley’s focus on large-scale works and public art projects makes his art accessible to a broader audience. His monumental sculptures and murals in public spaces bring fine art out of the traditional gallery setting and into everyday life, engaging a more diverse audience.

Five Best Artworks by Kehinde Wiley

1. Napoleon Leading the Army Over the Alps
This iconic piece features a young Black man in contemporary clothing, replacing Napoleon Bonaparte. It challenges historical representations of power and heroism, encouraging a rethinking of who is depicted in classical art.

2. President Barack Obama
Wiley’s portrait of President Obama blends natural elements with a traditional pose, and the background symbolizes Obama’s roots and journey. This painting not only immortalizes the first African American president but also highlights the importance of representation in public art.

3. The Two Sisters
Featuring two young women in vibrant, patterned dresses, this painting was inspired by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres' “The Valpinçon Bather,”. It underscores the beauty and strength of Black women, who are often underrepresented in classical art.

4. St. John the Baptist in the Wilderness
This piece reimagines the biblical figure of St. John the Baptist, placing a young Black man in the central role. Wiley aims to influence viewers to reconsider traditional narratives and the roles assigned to different communities with this act.

5. Portrait of a Florentine Nobleman
Here, Wiley reimagines a classic Renaissance portrait with a contemporary Black man, adorned in modern attire yet posed regally against a vibrant, patterned backdrop. This piece challenges historical depictions of nobility and power, promoting a dialogue on race, identity, and representation in art.

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