Mizrah;Shiviti 2011

Kehinde Wiley's 2011 painting *Mizrah;Shiviti* depicts a young Black man with dreadlocks, posed against a vibrantly patterned background. The intricate floral design, reminiscent of traditional Islamic art, is a recurring motif in Wiley's work, exploring themes of identity and representation within historical artistic traditions. His portraits challenge traditional notions of portraiture, placing contemporary Black figures within the context of European art history. The work's vibrant colors and meticulous detail draw the viewer into the subject's gaze, prompting reflection on the complexities of cultural identity and artistic legacy.