Samuel Johnson 2009

Curator: This vibrant oil on canvas piece is titled *Samuel Johnson*, created by Kehinde Wiley in 2009. Editor: Immediately striking—the juxtaposition! The portrait is assertive, confident, yet the effeminate Rococo background and ornate foliage seem to swallow the figure, making the scale relationships incredibly intriguing. Curator: Wiley is known for subverting historical portraiture, often placing contemporary Black men in poses and settings traditionally reserved for European aristocracy. The baroque, floral backdrop serves as a stage upon which identity is performed. It calls to mind aristocratic power. Editor: The composition—a careful balance of hard and soft, angular and curvilinear forms—also directs the eye strategically. Note the convergence of lines towards the figure’s hands, posed almost like a gesture of blessing or even accusation. The floral motifs crawl up from the bottom as if trying to envelop him and off of his bomber jacket as if he is escaping. The painting achieves perfect asymmetry using only slightly unbalanced halves that share color, composition, and other formal qualities. Curator: The layering of symbols speaks to a reclamation of power. The young man’s clothing—his cap, the bomber jacket—speaks to contemporary urban culture, and he confronts the viewer in this updated classical pose. This speaks to art historical gaps. Wiley interrogates art history but is also careful to pay homage, thereby honoring his forbearers while making a strong claim to be placed among them. The figure itself is the central icon, and invites discussion of class, identity, and representation. Editor: Definitely. Beyond the conceptual framework, it is also beautifully executed, as well. The rendering is photorealistic. Look closely; observe how Wiley’s precise, controlled brushstrokes allow for the rendering of depth and volume. This lends an interesting tension when placed against the patterned backdrop. The way Wiley uses his chosen mediums and composition styles allow for conversation between disparate cultural eras to organically arise. Curator: Ultimately, Wiley creates a dialogue between the past and present, challenging our preconceptions about who gets to be represented in positions of power and prestige. Editor: A fascinating piece that brilliantly destabilizes visual expectations through form and symbolism. It's a stimulating exploration of identity constructed through contrast.