Kehinde Wiley: Redefining Classical Portraiture

Contemporary artist transforming traditional art Exploring identity, power, and representation Grade 8 Art Education

Who is Kehinde Wiley?

Born in Los Angeles, 1977 African-American contemporary artist Known for vibrant, ornate portrait paintings Based in New York City First African-American to paint an official presidential portrait

Classical Portraiture Tradition

European tradition dating back centuries Depicted wealthy, powerful subjects Formal poses and elegant settings Rich fabrics and symbolic objects Established social hierarchy and status

Think About It

Who was typically featured in classical portraits? What message did these paintings send about power and importance? How might this affect how we view art and history?

Wiley's Artistic Revolution

Places Black and brown subjects in classical poses Uses ornate floral backgrounds instead of plain ones Combines street fashion with formal portrait tradition Challenges who deserves to be painted Creates new narrative about power and beauty

Napoleon Leading the Army over the Alps

Traditional vs. Wiley's Approach

{"left":"White European subjects\nBlack and brown subjects\nPlain or architectural backgrounds\nVibrant floral patterns","right":"Formal court dress\nContemporary street fashion\nReinforced existing power\nChallenges power structures"}

Design Your Own Portrait

Choose a person you admire Design a floral background that represents them Decide on their pose and clothing Consider what message your portrait sends Sketch your ideas

Cultural Impact and Recognition

Obama Presidential Portrait (2018) Exhibited in major museums worldwide Influenced contemporary art conversation Sparked discussions about representation Inspired young artists of color

"I'm looking at the history of painting and the absence of the black body in European painting."

- Kehinde Wiley