Gio Swaby

Gio Swaby is a Bahamian-born artist who redefines the black body through portraits made in textile-based techniques, celebrating strong black women. This first book showcases 80 works in full color, exploring the intersections of blackness and womanhood.

Format: Hardback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2022
Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications

Gio Swaby: Defining the Black Body Through Textile Art

Gio Swaby, a 29-year-old Bahamian-born artist, is making her debut with an ambitious project that seeks to redefine the often-politicized black body. Through her captivating portraits, created using a range of textile-based techniques such as embroidery and applique, Swaby celebrates the strength and beauty of black women.

Swaby's intimate portraits are unique, highly personal figurative works that blend vibrant fabrics and intricate, freehand lines of thread on canvas. These works explore the complex intersections of blackness and womanhood, challenging traditional notions of identity and representation. Illustrated with 80 works in full color, spanning from 2017 to 2021, this is the first book dedicated to this contemporary feminist artist, who is rapidly gaining recognition in the world of textiles and portraiture.

According to Swaby, her goal was to create a space where individuals could see themselves reflected in a moment of joy, celebrated without expectations or stereotypes. Her artwork challenges the dominant narratives surrounding blackness and femininity, offering a fresh perspective on identity and self-expression.

In this comprehensive book, writers and scholars from various perspectives delve into Swaby's work and its place within contemporary black art. They explore her artistic approach, the themes she addresses, and the impact her work has on the broader art world. Through their insights, readers gain a deeper understanding of Swaby's artistic vision and the significance of her contributions to the field.

Gio Swaby's debut exhibition is a testament to her talent and dedication to challenging societal norms and promoting inclusivity. Her artwork encourages viewers to see beyond surface appearances and embrace the diversity and richness of blackness and womanhood. As she continues to explore these themes in her future projects, Swaby is poised to make a significant impact on the art world.

In conclusion, Gio Swaby's debut exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art and the representation of marginalized communities. Through her innovative use of textiles and her commitment to celebrating blackness and womanhood, Swaby is redefining the boundaries of art and challenging the status quo. Her work is a testament to the power of creativity and the ability of art to inspire change.

Weight: 978g
Dimension: 226 x 313 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780847871735