How did the works of Kerry James Marshall and other Black artists address themes of race and representation in art?

Kerry James Marshall and other Black artists have long been addressing themes of race and representation in their works, challenging the dominant narratives of Western art and making visible the underrepresented stories of Black Americans.

Marshall, in particular, has been recognized for his paintings that explore the complexities of Black identity and challenge the notion that Black figures have been absent from the canon of Western art. His work often features Black figures in domestic settings, public spaces, and historical events, emphasizing their presence and agency in American society.

Other Black artists have also been addressing similar themes in their work. For example, Kara Walker's silhouettes and installations explore the history of slavery and its enduring impact on American society, while Fred Wilson's installations and sculptures critique the ways in which Western museums and galleries have historically displayed and interpreted non-Western art.

Through their works, Marshall, Walker, Wilson, and other Black artists have been advocating for greater representation and inclusivity in the art world and challenging the ways in which race and identity have been historically constructed and represented in Western art.