Artist: Hebru Brantley
Title: Blk Love
Medium: Graphite on Paper
Size: 24 x 18 Inches
Year: 2020
Notes: Hand Signed by the Artist.
Included in the Artist's Museum Show at the Ft. Wayne Museum of Art. Saints & Shepherds embarks on an intriguing journey, delving into the realms of modern-day mythology, all seen through the contemporary Afro-Futuristic lens of the prolific artist, Hebru Brantley.
Within Brantley's captivating 'Negros Mythos' universe, the distinction between heroes becomes a fascinating exploration. Here, 'Shepherds' embody the role of Culture Purveyors, while 'Saints' represent the outliers, those on the cusp of blossoming into new leaders by introducing innovative thought. Saints, in their stories, often undergo embellishment and reverence after they have passed away, yet during their lifetimes, their ideas and unconventional ways are not always met with open arms. This exhibition serves as a celebration of both Shepherds and Saints, echoing the transformative journey from adolescence to adulthood and from supporter to leader.
The context of Sainthood beckons us to question the very essence of heroism, delving deep into themes of idolization and leadership. In today's dynamic cultural landscape, well-established norms and expectations are being reevaluated, compelling individuals to carefully select their role models based on their own unique values. This exhibition delves into the intriguing dichotomy of deconstructing past role models through cultural reappropriation while simultaneously honoring and celebrating the essence of mythology itself.
The concept of reappropriation holds a profound duality in this narrative. While contemporary culture has frequently appropriated facets of Black culture, Hebru ingeniously reverses this notion by reimagining traditionally Anglo-Saxon superheroes as people of color.
'Saints & Shepherds' is a meticulously curated exhibition by Thinkspace Projects, in collaboration with Josef Zimmerman, Curator of Contemporary Art. It offers a thought-provoking journey into a world where mythology, culture, and identity intertwine, inviting viewers to explore the evolving tapestry of heroism in our modern age