The Endangered Species: A Visual Response to the Vanishing Black Man
February 22, 2013 – May 7, 2013
Opening reception: Friday, February 22, 2013, 6 to 9pm
4445 South Martin Luther King Jr Drive
Chicago, IL
Blanc Gallery proudly presents The Endangered Species: A Visual Response to the Vanishing Black Man by artist Raub Welch with an opening reception on Friday, February 22, 2013 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The exhibit will run through May 7, 2013.
In this thought-provoking show Raub challenges audiences to view the work – as if from the future – a future in which black men have actually vanished. Audiences can view this exhibit as an archeological exploration of what a black man was, what he was expected to be, the artifacts of what he loved, and why he vanished. The exhibit masterfully intertwines masculinity, sexuality, slavery, poverty and aspiration.
In addition to being a gifted artist, Raub is a collector of antiques and a sought after interior designer. This exhibit is the sum of his parts. He layers archival text, precious relics, antique photos and starkly modern portraits to create 3-D visual metaphors. Each piece is a riotous installation—a visual treasure hunt. To celebrate Blanc Gallery’s third anniversary and the close of Black History Month, Raub has choreographed a provocative performance piece to accompany the opening called “The Parade of Spades.” Bucket boy drummers and tuxedoed male models will open this wonderful exhibit.
Blanc Gallery is a community based art space, working to re-inspire a Culture of Conversation in Chicago’s historic Bronzeville neighborhood. Gallery hours are Saturdays from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm and by appointment. Call 773-952-4394 for more information or visit blancchicago.com.
Posted 1 hour ago by Black Artist News