99% NO.24 Chester 2013

Curator: There's a certain intimacy to this piece. It's a portrait by Sedrick Huckaby, titled "99% NO.24 Chester," currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: I'm struck by its raw simplicity. The limited use of charcoal makes it feel immediate, like a fleeting moment captured. Curator: Huckaby's focus on Chester, likely a member of his community, suggests a deep interest in portraying everyday lives. The "99%" in the title could allude to socio-economic disparities. Editor: Yes, the materiality reflects the subject. The starkness of the charcoal on paper parallels the lived experiences of those marginalized, perhaps highlighting the lack of embellishment in their realities. Curator: It's a delicate balance. The artist uses simple, direct marks, but he is building a complex narrative. Editor: It makes you consider how even the simplest materials can convey profound stories about labor, class, and visibility. Curator: This is a beautiful testament to the power of art to foster empathy. Editor: Absolutely, it challenges us to consider the faces we often overlook and see their inherent dignity.