Kehinde Wiley is Commissioned to Bring Life to Iconic Painting
Kehinde Wiley is commissioned by The Huntington Library to bring life back to one of its most prized artworks. The Blue Boy is an iconic painting by Thomas Gainsborough, dating all the way back to the 18th century.
The art spotlights a young member of the British Aristocravy. Wiley talks about the project, “Looking at those paintings gave me a sense of joy and wonder. But there was also a disconnect — the life I was having in South-Central Los Angeles and then these incredibly mannered and organized gardens and these portraits that hung on the walls. ‘The Blue Boy’ represents, for me, an ability to address the different standards with regards to who gets recognized, who gets praised.”
Image Credit: The Huntington Library, Art Museum, Botanical Gardens
The art spotlights a young member of the British Aristocravy. Wiley talks about the project, “Looking at those paintings gave me a sense of joy and wonder. But there was also a disconnect — the life I was having in South-Central Los Angeles and then these incredibly mannered and organized gardens and these portraits that hung on the walls. ‘The Blue Boy’ represents, for me, an ability to address the different standards with regards to who gets recognized, who gets praised.”
Image Credit: The Huntington Library, Art Museum, Botanical Gardens
Trend Themes
1. Reimagining Iconic Artworks - The demand for contemporary reinterpretations of classic art is rising, providing opportunities for artists to create innovative works with well-known cultural references.
2. Combining Historical and Modern Styles - The trend of blending classical techniques with contemporary art styles is on the rise, resulting in unique and captivating works of art that attract a wider audience.
3. Using Art to Address Social Issues - More artists are using their art to address cultural, social, and political issues, providing a platform for discussion and reflection on society's most pressing issues.
Industry Implications
1. Art and Design - The art industry could leverage the trend of combining historical and modern art styles to create new and innovative works of art that appeal to a wider audience.
2. Museum and Gallery - Museums and galleries could commission contemporary artists to reinterpret classic artworks, providing their visitors with fresh and engaging perspectives on well-known art pieces.
3. Social Justice and Activism - Artists could leverage art as a means to promote social justice and activism by creating works that examine cultural, social, and political issues and prompt discussions on these themes.
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