Simone Leigh’s groundbreaking exhibition is a masterful exploration of the Black feminine experience, spanning nearly two decades of the artist’s work. The exhibition, currently on view at both the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the California African American Museum (CAAM), showcases Leigh’s unique use of clay as a medium to challenge traditional notions of sculpture.
One of the key themes in Leigh’s work is the relationship between architecture and people. Through her larger-than-life sculptures of Black women, Leigh questions whether architecture is meant to support or confine us. Her sculptures, such as the imposing “Sharifa” at LACMA, stand as sturdy pillars, challenging viewers to reconsider the way we perceive and present ourselves.
Leigh’s sculptures also challenge traditional notions of beauty and ownership. Her figures, while beautiful and present, do not exist for the viewer’s gaze. Instead, they exude a sense of privacy and unknowability that challenges viewers to question their own perceptions. The anonymity of Leigh’s sculptures allows them to exist primarily for themselves, rather than for the viewer’s consumption.
In addition to her sculptures, Leigh’s exhibition features video works that delve into themes of entombment, death, and performance. These videos, such as “Conspiracy” at LACMA, explore the anxieties and struggles that artists face when creating something unique and original. By juxtaposing scenes of clay working with images of archeological digs and ritualistic practices, Leigh invites viewers to consider the complexities of creation and interpretation.
Outside of the museum walls, Leigh’s outdoor sculptures offer a unique opportunity for passersby to engage with her art. These works, free to breathe the air and interact with nature, transform from sculptures into monuments, inviting contemplation and reflection.
Simone Leigh’s exhibition is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the Black feminine experience. By presenting her work simultaneously at LACMA and CAAM, Leigh challenges traditional curatorial boundaries and invites viewers to reconsider their perceptions of Black art and identity. The exhibition will be on view at both museums through January 20, 2025, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with Leigh’s groundbreaking work.
