"The Invisible Man and the Masque of Blackness," is an exhibition of sculptures by Zak Ové, on display at Civic Center Plaza.
Zak Ové is a British-Trinidadian artist whose work examines loss of culture and identity, giving homage to African history.
Ové believes African culture was lost as Great Britain and other “white” nations grew in power.
The art piece was created in direct reference to a play performed at Somerset House in London, England in 1605 by Queen Anne of Denmark and members of her court who appeared in blackface, which was gradually whitened throughout the performance.
The play, according to the artist, "was reflective of the societal shift towards a preference for lighter skin in the early 17th century," which set the scene for justifying *cough* white superiority.
I find it fascinating to watch people interact with the art installation. Is creating objects for people to take selfies adding to African culture?
The cute boy and his girlfriend catch my eye.
If you ask me about the message behind the art, I feel society is so inundated with “love everyone,” “treat everyone right” or “freedom and equality for all!” That as art, it’s just so boring and repetitive. Turn on MSNBC, CNN or load The Huffington Post for the same repetitive messaging.
Great art challenges people to think differently, highlights a unique idea or it showcases beauty.
You can take a selfie with it!!
