TANGLED MASS TRIPTYCH
by Makeba Kedem-DuBose
This 3-panel mixed media work uses the Christian triptych and the 3-part organization of a European sonata to engage the ongoing aftermath of US chattel slavery and Black American experiences with trauma, transformation, and resilience. Dubose references repetitive movements such as consumption, dance, and protest. Civil rights news clippings, remnants of familiar contemporary commodity packaging, “sugar in the raw,” a Trader Joe’s shopping bag, and images of pregnancy, generations, gender, animal forms, and death invite reflections on the seemingly mundane as well as eventful aspects of social reproduction and transformation.
The artist began working on the piece after the killing of Breonna Taylor, in March 2020.
A Black woman at the center of the tangled mass, cow's leg, woman's feet, a clock, and a dancing couple. Words on sheet music say "development" & "recapitulation." Mixed media collage. Piece was purchased by Museum from the artist (#T2021.33.1).
A gun, three Black boys jogging in New York (from vintage magazine article on exercise), and rocks (which the artist uses to represent their ancestors). Words on sheet music say "Marche Militaire." Mixed media collage. Piece was purchased by Museum from the artist (#T2021.33.1).
Mast of ship becoming arm of a Black man depicted as a crucifix, a Black woman carrying a traditional boat on her head, and sugar in the raw. Words on sheet music say "Romance." Mixed media collage. Piece was purchased by Museum from the artist (#T2021.33.1).
A Black woman at the center of the tangled mass, cow's leg, woman's feet, a clock, and a dancing couple. Words on sheet music say "development" & "recapitulation." Mixed media collage. Piece was purchased by Museum from the artist (#T2021.33.1).