Antonio Oba

Brazilian artist Antonio Obá explores the construction of Black bodies in historical and political narratives, emphasizing the absence or insertion of Black figures into local traditions. This survey presents the most comprehensive presentation of his work to date, addressing issues such as racial and political identity, religious subjects, and the eroticization of the Black male body.

Format: Hardback
Length: 116 pages
Publication date: 16 May 2023
Publisher: Circle Books

Antonio Obá, a Brazilian artist born in 1983, delves into the intricate exploration of the construction of Black bodies within historical and political narratives. Through a diverse range of artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, installation, and performance, Obá examines the multifaceted dimensions of Black identity. With a particular focus on his own country, he engages in experimental explorations of Brazilian iconography, challenging and subverting traditional representations.

In his landscapes and portraits, Obá skillfully highlights the absence or presence of Black figures in local traditions, either by deliberately omitting them or seamlessly integrating them into existing cultural narratives. His artwork serves as a powerful commentary on the historical and social dynamics that have shaped the perception of Blackness in Brazil.

Spanning two decades of Obá's artistic journey, this comprehensive survey presents the most extensive presentation of his work to date. Curators Diane Lima and Diana Campbell delve into the profound themes and issues raised by Obá's multimedia oeuvre. They examine the artist's allusions to racial and political identity, religious subjects, and the eroticization of the Black male body, exploring the complex intersections of these themes within his art.

Through his innovative and thought-provoking approach, Antonio Obá challenges viewers to reexamine their perceptions of Blackness and its representation in art. His work encourages us to consider the ways in which historical narratives, cultural traditions, and societal norms have shaped the construction of Black identities and the ongoing struggle for recognition and equality. By examining the eroticization of the Black male body, Obá also sheds light on the complex and often marginalized experiences of Black men in Brazil and beyond.

This survey serves as a testament to Antonio Obá's artistic brilliance and his commitment to challenging the status quo through his art. It provides a valuable platform for exploring the complexities of Blackness and its representation in contemporary art, encouraging us to engage with these important issues and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.

Weight: 1111g
Dimension: 257 x 226 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780578359649