The recent showcase of Glenn Ligon’s artwork at Hauser & Wirth delves deep into the intersection of language and color in the realm of figuration. Ligon’s latest series, “Late at night, early in the morning, at noon,” explores the fusion of text and abstraction, drawing inspiration from James Baldwin’s writings.
One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is “Blue (for JB) #18,” a mesmerizing composition of carbon ink and acrylic on torinoko paper. The deep cerulean surface is punctuated by black letters, creating a network of shapes that hint at figuration. Ligon’s manipulation of language and color in this piece evokes a sense of mystery and depth, inviting viewers to unravel its enigmatic beauty.
Another notable work is “Blue (for JB) #12,” where thick layers of black lettering obscure glimpses of a hidden form beneath the surface. The interplay between abstract marks and faint traces of recognizable shapes creates a sense of intrigue and discovery, beckoning viewers to dive into the icy aqua expanse of the artwork.
In a separate gallery, Ligon’s printmaking practice is showcased, spanning from the early 1990s to the present day. Pieces like “Untitled (Cancellation Prints)” challenge the notion of racialized color, with the phrase “I feel most colored when I am thrown against a sharp white background” repeated across the composition. Through his exploration of color and language, Ligon prompts viewers to question the complexities of racial identity and representation.
Overall, “Late at night, early in the morning, at noon” offers a thought-provoking journey into the world of Glenn Ligon’s artistry. The exhibition at Hauser & Wirth serves as a testament to Ligon’s mastery in merging language and color to birth new forms of figuration. Visitors are sure to be captivated by the depth and complexity of Ligon’s work, leaving them with a renewed appreciation for the power of art to transcend boundaries and spark meaningful conversations.
For more information about Glenn Ligon’s exhibition, visit Hauser & Wirth at 443 West 18th Street, Chelsea, Manhattan. The showcase runs through April 11 and is a must-see for art enthusiasts looking to explore the intersection of language, color, and figuration in contemporary art.
