Transforming Identities

Transforming Identities

Feb 22–Mar 26, 1999

Transforming Identities featured New Orleans artist Willie Birch. This exhibition consisted of 16 figurative papier-maché sculptures and 16 large acrylics on paper, showing the many messages, sources and concerns weaving throughout Birch’s art. The work was inspired in varying and overlaying degrees by Congolese nkisi fetish dolls, Southern folk art, Egyptian numerology, New Orleans-style architecture, jazz music, the civil rights struggle, and portraiture of family members. His apparel, costumes and accessories are a portable manifestation of African-American identity. Birch’s work demonstrates both his incredible strength as a storyteller and as an artist committed to social causes.