How did the works of Titus Kaphar and other contemporary figurative painters address themes of race and history in art?

Titus Kaphar and other contemporary figurative painters have been actively addressing themes of race and history in their art. Their works often challenge dominant narratives and historical representations by deconstructing and reimagining them. Kaphar's works, in particular, often explore the complex relationship between race and power.

One of Kaphar's most notable works is his National Portrait Gallery series, which features images of American historical figures such as Thomas Jefferson and Andrew Jackson. Kaphar has altered these images by painting over them or creating sculptural elements that obscure or erase certain parts of the image. By doing so, he calls attention to the fact that these figures were not only individuals with complex personal lives, but also participants in a system of power that perpetuated racism and inequality.

Other contemporary figurative painters have also been addressing similar themes. Kerry James Marshall, for instance, often depicts African-American figures in historical and mythological contexts, challenging the absence of black bodies in traditional Western art. Lynette Yiadom-Boakye's works, on the other hand, often feature imagined black figures that subvert stereotypical representations of blackness in Western art and media.

Through their works, Kaphar and other contemporary figurative painters are not only challenging dominant narratives and historical representations, but also opening up new spaces for critical engagement with issues of race and history in art.