Redefining the Black Aesthetic: An Art Talk with Curator Thomas James

Meet Thomas James, a curator and culture protector based in Baltimore, renowned for his dedication to promoting and elevating black artists and their distinctive perspectives. With a strong passion for redefining the black aesthetic in the art world, Thomas has curated numerous exhibitions that showcase the richness and diversity of black artistry. In this special bonus episode, recorded in September 2021 at The Eubie Blake Cultural Center, Thomas engages in an insightful art talk with hosts Rob Lee and Jason V, as they delve into the thought-provoking topic of "Repercussions: Redefining the Black Aesthetic."

In this exclusive interview:

• We delve into the vast and ever-evolving black aesthetic, exploring how it reflects the diverse experiences and perspectives of black artists.
• Join us as we discuss abstract art and its power to challenge traditional notions of fine art, allowing artists to explore different materials and perspectives.
• In this insightful conversation, we shed light on the unique hurdles faced by black artists in critiques and art appreciation, discussing how their work is sometimes overlooked or misunderstood.
• Discover the growing representation of black artists and curators in the art world, as more galleries and institutions recognize and celebrate the value of black art.
• Tune in to learn about the expanding Baltimore art scene, which attracts artists and collectors from other cities, fostering exciting collaboration and networking opportunities in the vibrant art community.

In this episode of the Baltimore podcast "Local Color," host Jason and co-host Rob Lee interview Thomas James, a curator and culture protector. Thomas discusses his latest exhibition, "Repercussions," which showcases abstract black art. He explains that the black aesthetic is vast and ever-evolving, reflecting the diverse experiences and perspectives of black artists. Thomas also discusses the challenges faced by black artists in the art world and the changing landscape of gallery representation. He emphasizes the importance of empowering black artists and curators and expanding the Baltimore art scene.

Repercussions: Redefining the Black Aesthetic

"More than 50 years removed from the 1960s ‘new abstraction’ movement, contemporary Black artists are creating abstract works that add new layers to what we consider fine art. This work is important to analyze as these artists tell new stories, inserting themselves into the conversations affecting the modern world."

—Thomas James, Exhibition Curator

Featuring the artists

* ALEXANDRE AMEGAH * ANTONIO MCAFEE * ASHA ELANA CASEY * BRIA STERLING * CHARLES PHILIPPE JEAN PIERRE * DESMOND BEACH * KY VASSOR * LEHNA HUIE * LIONEL FRAIZER WHITE III * QRCKY * REBECCA MARIMUTU * SARAH STEFANA SMITH * SULDANO ABDRIRUHMAN * VICTORIA WALTON * WELSEY CLARK

Mentioned in this episode:

Jason's Local Color Podcast
Eubie Blake Cultural Center

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Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

• Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
• Edited by Daniel Alexis
• Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

• Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
• Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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