Passing;Posing #3 2005

Kehinde Wiley made this oil on canvas painting, and it brings a new perspective to the tradition of portraiture. Wiley carefully constructs his canvases, beginning with the selection of his models – often young black men encountered in urban environments. The ornate backgrounds, inspired by historical textiles and decorative patterns, are painted with precision, creating a striking contrast with the contemporary attire of the subjects. This juxtaposition of classical motifs and modern urban culture challenges conventional notions of power and representation. The act of painting itself becomes a commentary on labor and class, reflecting the historical association of portraiture with wealth and privilege. Wiley reclaims this tradition by imbuing it with the visibility of black men, whose presence has often been marginalized in the art world. Wiley blurs the boundaries between fine art and social commentary by carefully considering material, making, and context, inviting viewers to reconsider the very definition of portraiture.