Kehinde Wiley: An Economy of Grace

My coworker recommended the documentary "Kehinde Wiley: an Economy of Grace" after chatting with me about art and politics. I've admired Kehinde Wiley's works ever since I first saw his paintings a few years ago. I like how he used classical painting technique juxtaposed with modern subjects and images. His paintings are very beautiful.

In the documentary, Kehinde Wiley moves his paintings to China to have the background completed by Chinese painters. Now I know all the great master painters used assistants and students to "help" finish their work, and some have an entire factory of workers producing their work.

But... why Chinese painters? Is Kehinde Wiley just exploiting cheap labor for economy of scale? Could he not find any skilled painters in the United States? I was really digging his project until the Chinese background painters showed up.

 

Banksy does NY

Banksy does New York

I just watched this last night and it was hilarious. The concept of incorporating the public reaction to your artwork as part of the artwork... brilliant. Can't wait to see what's next from Banksy.

By the way, who IS Banksy? From all the McDonalds and Mickey Mouse references s/he uses, I wouldn't be surprised if s/he was Bob Iger... Just kidding, don't prank me Banksy!

Banner for my retiring boss

For Dean, I painted a banner that served as a photo backdrop and farewell keepsake to allow his colleagues to leave a parting note.

Adding a date to the last retirement wish

One final photo for the team

Art Jam Challenge, December 2015

The next AJ Challenge is also a fundraiser for the Frank Bette Center for the Arts. The fundraiser is called the "Secret Art Sale" and the members of AJ are participating as part of our challenge. I'm not sure how we will judge our own works, but we hope to raise some money for the Center.

Here is my contribution.

Franklin and 12th Oakland, 5 x 7, Acrylic and color pencil on paper

More Mini-Masterpieces for December 11th Reception

Will be adding more works tomorrow...

Fruitvale sunset

Alameda sentinels

10th Street sunset

Ratto's and Cafe 817

Moonrise over Parkway Drive-In

"Sunset over Port of Oakland" on exhibit

Yesterday, there was a reception for new art at the EBMUD Gallery in Oakland. I was fortunate to have a good exhibit location for my triptych.

Describing my process to gallery visitors.

"Thank you, I'll add more cranes in the next painting..."

Victorian Details in Oakland

There are many wonderful details in Old Oakland...

Nicholl Block Building on 9th Street