Stan Squirewell’s Mixed-Media Collages Imbue Anonymous Historical Photos with Panache

There’s something fascinating about discovering a collection of vintage photographs. We often examine the back for notes and scrutinize the unrecognized faces to unveil a tapestry of emotions. What was the setting of that moment, what events led them to congregate, and who was behind the camera? For Stan Squirewell, the charm of historical portraits forms a core component of his multimedia artistry.

In his large-scale, mixed-media collages, Squirewell starts with black-and-white images often over a century old. He particularly highlights portraits of Black individuals, whether they are depicted in groups or as solitary figures. Some compositions utilize formal studio portraits, while others capture a more candid essence. Adorning their apparel, Squirewell integrates fabric patterns, paint, and glitter, bridging the past with contemporary aesthetics.

Squirewell’s ongoing solo exhibition, Robitussin, Hotcombs & Grease, at Plattsburgh State Art Museum, explores themes of Black identity and everyday life. According to the museum, the title refers to items considered “elements of comfort and domesticity in Black households,” emphasizing “the reclamation of identity from historical anonymity.”

The artist sources his photographs from the anonymous collections at the Smithsonian Institution and from acquaintances. Through the personal nature of the portrait, individuals once lost to history are revived with lively textile designs, while branded symbols from luxury labels like Louis Vuitton and Gucci imply a sense of elevated identity. The large scale of his prints further blurs facial details, bringing the figures closer to life-size, thus making their presence more tangible.

Robitussin, Hotcombs & Grease runs until December 5. Check out the museum’s website for more details, and explore additional works by the artist on Instagram.