"There are no tyrannies that would not try to limit art, because they can see the power of art. Art can tell the world things that cannot be shared otherwise. It is art that conveys feelings."

 - Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the President of Ukraine 

Kerry James Marshall

(c)image: Courtesy of the artist, Jack Shainman Gallery, NY, and Koplin Del Rio, CA
Baobab Ensemble, 2003
Mixed Media , variable dimensions
milk crates, cinder blocks, found objects, ink-jet prints on paper

The Baobab Ensemble (2003) is an impromptu seating area made from found objects, including crates, logs, discarded objects and plastic-covered mats. The installation also includes photographs of makeshift seating areas located under trees, referring to the traditional places of congregation under Baobab trees in Africa.

The Baobab Ensemble incorporates selected video works by Marshall as well as his personal archive of image clippings that are the fundamental reference material for his artworks, all presented in binders free for viewing. The installation offers a tranquil spot where members of the public can relax, talk, flick through the images, and get an insight into Marshall’s means of practicing as an artist.