Artwork
#beads
#Demond Melancon
#portraits
“Fela: The Future and Now” (2021), glass beads and rhinestones on canvas, 22 x 16 inches. All photos courtesy of the artist and Arthur Roger Gallery, shared with permission
A member of the Younger Seminole Hunters, Large Chief Demond Melancon leads Black masking traditions in his native New Orleans, spending numerous hours stitching small glass beads and feathers into elaborate fits to be worn throughout Mardi Gras. The labor-intensive clothes are only one a part of Melancon’s apply (beforehand), although. He transfers the intricate beadwork to smaller portraits honoring cultural icons, political figures, and those that’ve made a profound affect personally and collectively.
The continuing sequence contains individuals like former First Woman Michelle Obama, who seems sporting a sublime gold and inexperienced headdress with a regal expression. Nigerian musician and activist Fela Kuti seems, too, with a crown and painted face, his charismatic and decided character shining by means of the beadwork. Intent on reimagining the portrayals of and narratives traditionally surrounding Black individuals, Melancon creates portraits that share tales of celebration and renown, depicting his topics with pleasure and adoration.
Discover extra of the sequence on Melancon’s web site and at Arthur Roger Gallery, the place he’s represented. Observe the most recent on Instagram.
“Queen First Lady” (2022), glass beads and rhinestones on canvas, 12.25 x 10.25 inches
Element of “The Future and Now” (2021), glass beads and rhinestones on canvas, 22 x 16 inches
“Cross Colours” (2022), glass beads and rhinestones on canvas, 11.75 x 7 inches
“Treme” (2021), glass beads and rhinestones on canvas, 12.5 x 10.5 inches
“Carnival Time” (2023), glass beads and rhinestones on canvas, 21 x 15.25 inches
“Soul a Burning Fire” (2024), glass beads and rhinestones on canvas, 12.5 x 9 inches
#beads
#Demond Melancon
#portraits
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