via: newsome
Notes:
Rashaad Newsome’s work in collage and digital video explores themes of identity, power, and cultural expression through an intricate fusion of traditional and contemporary art forms. In his collages, Newsome carefully layers opulent materials such as velvet, leather, and gold leaf, combined with images sourced from fashion magazines and pop culture. This merging of textures and references creates visually striking compositions that critique and celebrate the influence of Black culture on mainstream media. Newsome’s use of bold shapes and patterns amplifies this sense of grandeur, emphasizing the prestige and value of the subjects he portrays. His collages act as mirrors that reflect both the exaltation and commodification of Black culture within a predominantly Eurocentric art history.
Newsome’s digital video work is equally compelling, drawing viewers into immersive, choreographed landscapes of sound and movement. His use of 3D animation and motion capture technology, often blended with live performance, pushes the boundaries of digital media in fine art. These videos often feature dancers engaged in voguing, a style with roots in LGBTQ+ communities of color, particularly Black and Latinx. By incorporating voguing in an art context, Newsome reclaims and uplifts a historically marginalized cultural practice, while also challenging the rigidity of art institutions. The hypnotic nature of his video installations creates a visceral experience that celebrates movement and bodily expression as powerful statements of identity and resistance.
Through both his collages and digital video works, Newsome blurs the lines between art forms, pushing viewers to reconsider the boundaries of fine art, performance, and digital media. His works function as both personal explorations of self-identity and broader commentaries on cultural representation and power dynamics. By combining the elegance of Baroque aesthetics with contemporary symbols of wealth and fame, Newsome not only critiques but also reimagines the constructs of status and beauty. His approach forces viewers to confront their own perceptions of value, authenticity, and influence, making his works deeply engaging and socially relevant.
- RJG