KEHINDE WILEY, AFRICAN AMERICANS AND NEOCLASSICAL ART

Kehinde Wiley at Deitch Projects NYC

The art of Kehinde Wiley is a modern interpretation of the neoclassic European paintings that have long been revered for their beauty and cultural significance. Like these classic works, Wiley's paintings are characterized by their attention to detail, realism, and grandiose themes. However, what sets Wiley's work apart is his unique approach to representing people of color in these traditionally white-dominated spaces.
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​One of the defining features of neoclassic paintings is their focus on grand historical or mythological subjects. These works often depict powerful figures in poses of authority, surrounded by symbols of wealth and status. Wiley's work also addresses these themes, but with a twist. Rather than depicting traditional subjects like kings or generals, he portrays contemporary African Americans in these grand poses, often with elements of hip hop and urban culture woven into the compositions.

Kehinde Wiley (American, born 1977). Napoleon Leading the Army over the Alps, 2005. Oil on canvas, 108 x 108 in. (274.3 x 274.3 cm). Brooklyn Museum

Jacques-Louis David, (France b. 1748) Napoleon Crossing the Alps, 1803 version, oil on canvas 275 × 232 cm

, 18th century Neoclassical art

This representation of people of color in these historically white-dominated spaces is a radical departure from the norms of neoclassic art. These paintings have long been seen as a celebration of European power and superiority, and to see people of color occupying these positions of authority is a powerful statement. By placing these subjects in positions of power and prestige, Wiley is challenging the traditional hierarchy and subverting expectations about who is worthy of being depicted in this way.
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Another characteristic of neoclassic paintings is their attention to realism and detail. These works are known for their carefully rendered details and lifelike appearances, and Wiley's work follows in this tradition. His figures are highly realistic and carefully crafted, with every aspect of their appearance given careful consideration. This realism serves to elevate the subjects of his paintings further, bringing them to life in a way that is both striking and meaningful.

Kehinde Wiley, Femme piquée par un serpent, 2008 Oil on canvas 102 × 300 in | 259.1 × 762 cm



Despite these similarities, there are also some notable differences between Wiley's work and neoclassic paintings. One of the most obvious is the way in which he uses color. While neoclassic paintings tend to be characterized by their muted and subdued color palettes, Wiley's work is often much more vibrant and lively. He makes use of bright, bold colors to add an extra layer of energy and excitement to his compositions.
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Ultimately, the art of Kehinde Wiley is a modern interpretation of the neoclassic European paintings that have long been admired for their beauty and cultural significance. Like these classic works, Wiley's paintings are characterized by their attention to detail, realism, and grandiose themes. However, Wiley's unique approach to representing people of color in these traditionally white-dominated spaces challenges traditional hierarchies while subverting expectations about who is worthy of being depicted in this way.

Kehinde Wiley Barack Obama, 2018

Kehinde Wiley, Portrait of Simon George II, 2007. Oil on canvas, 62 1/2 x 51 in. Crocker Art Museum