The Minstrel Show is a nine piece series created to examine the dichotomy between Black culture and American media. Using figurative and abstract imagery commonly found within coon caricature dating back to mid 1800s, the series explores representation throughout the past 200 years.
Sambo, the most popular and decorative descriptor used for Black people throughout the early 1900s, is most recognizable from “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” an overseer in the 1852 book written by Harriet Beecher Stowe. In 1899, Helen Bannerman illustrated and wrote a children’s book titled “The Story of Little Black Sambo,” which birthed a new genre called Coon caricature. Coon caricature depicted Black people as lazy, easily frightened, chronically idle, inarticulate, and ignorant.
This nine piece series explores the stereotypes and relationship between American media and the exploration of Black culture using oil pastel on 48in x 38in canvas.
The Minstrel Show debuted at Byron L. Edwards’ first solo exhibit on November 4, 2021.
Originals Art for Sale| info@byronlinnell.com
PHOTOS:
KAI BYRD COURTESY OF BYRON L. EDWARDS
NOVEMBER 4, 2021
SUNSET BLVD — LOS ANGELES, CA
