Last Chance : Kara Walker Show at The Hammer Museum

If you haven't seen it yet, this weekend's the last chance to see Kara Walker's My Complement, My Enemy, My Oppressor, My Love at the Hammer Museum in Westwood, the show's only West Coast stop.

The first comprehensive presentation of this African-American artist's career, it's controversial, amazing and breathtaking and not without a very sly sense of humour. Be warned; this work is graphic in its depiction of sex and violence. More information available here.

Comments (5)

Thank you for the reminder. Heading over tomorrow.

let me also urge you to go -- her stuff is awesome and so dramatic "in person."

My boyfriend and I went last night and still haven't had a chance to really talk about it. It's upsetting and amazing and gives people like me an opportunity to talk about something that I haven't given enough thought.

Last year for an art class I saw her work on season two of ART 21 and was inspired to make my own silhouettes, albeit less controversial ones.

I saw somewhere recently a DIY way to make them but I don't remember where, so here is my quick wrap up of the process:

You will need a photo (original size or blown up), tracing paper (I'd spring for it, wax paper from the grocer can mess up the tips of your fine tip sharpie), an exacto and some blades, spray adhesive and archival paper (one of each color).

1. trace the picture on the tracing paper
2. cut out the trace with your exacto
3. place the traced image onto one of the colored pieces of paper and cut it out (you can outline it with pencil and erase it afterwords if you have patience)
4. Spray the back of the traced piece and mount it onto your other piece of paper.

wash your hands and frame!

Heartbreaking, thought provoking, moving...the list goes on and on. Kara Walker's talent is immense and the effect her work has is profound.

Thanks again AT for the reminder.