A selection of remarkable realistic paintings by Detroit, Michigan-based artist Mario Moore. His pieces explore the black identity and historical references.
I am fascinated by history. I view painting as a historical journey that shifts through time – From ancient Black civilizations that produced some of the most sophisticated and advanced empires the world has ever seen; European history paintings that depict Black bodies in subordinate roles; to the historical consequences of the Atlantic slave trade and the effects it has on African Americans today. My interest in these histories is how they all can be found in one location, one body — the Black body — I employ this body to show power and resilience through the denial of the colonial gaze. I redefine the gaze for the subjects I paint, allowing them to look directly out in an unflinching stare.The historical references within my work draw parallels to the social, economic and racial occurrences of today.
Mario Moore
More info: Website, Facebook, Instagram (h/t: David Klein Gallery, Booooooom).
