Detroit-based artist Mario Moore is making waves with his large-scale works in oil, currently on display at Library Street Collective in the exhibition “Beneath Our Feet.” Drawing inspiration from European painting traditions, Moore delves into themes of veneration, self-determination, and the continuum of history in his bold portraits.
In his new pieces, Moore pays homage to the Dutch and Flemish tradition of devotional painting, particularly garland paintings. These works feature Black figures surrounded by elegant arrangements of flowers and foliage, engaging in activities like relaxing or tending to gardens. One striking piece, titled “Watermelon Man,” showcases a stone altar adorned with hibiscus and watermelons, reclaiming the fruit as a symbol of resilience and self-sufficiency for African Americans.
Moore’s artistic practice often explores the culture and legacies of Detroit and the broader U.S. through the lens of the Black diaspora. In earlier works like “Pillars,” he places Black figures in refined dress against the backdrop of the American frontier, addressing the enduring impact of racial divisions on contemporary society.
A recent exhibition at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, titled “Revolutionary Times,” delved into Moore’s series “A New Republic,” which reexamines the history of Black Union soldiers during the Civil War. Inspired by the story of one of his enslaved ancestors who enlisted in the Union Army, Moore’s work interrogates political and racial segregations by juxtaposing present-day figures in historical contexts.
In collaboration with fellow Detroit artist LaKela Brown for “Beneath Our Feet,” Moore created a five-foot-wide bas-relief bronze coin. His contribution to the coin features a portrait of Brown, challenging the historic absence of Black women in national symbolism and positions of authority. The exhibition explores the concept of land ownership and the history of Black farmers, reflecting on the wealth held in the earth beneath us.
Through his use of European painting tropes and contemporary themes, Moore’s work captures the essence of Detroit style and pride. In pieces like “Birth of Cool” and “Creation of a Revolutionary,” he skillfully blends historical narratives with modern-day perspectives, creating a compelling dialogue between past and present.
Overall, Moore’s art invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of history, race, and identity, while celebrating the resilience and creativity of the Black community. “Beneath Our Feet” is a poignant exploration of land, history, and possibility, showcasing Moore’s talent for storytelling through striking visual imagery.
