New York-based British-Liberian artist Lina Iris Viktor made a big statement at The Armory Show in New York this past week (March 8-11, 2018) where she made her debut appearance with a collection titled “The Black Arc,” a solo display as represented by Seattle-based Mariane Ibrahim Gallery.
Located in the Town Square section of Pier 94, the booth was buzzing during the Wednesday night preview up until the last hour on Sunday. Making use of a palette of dark blue and black acrylic paint combined with the ancient practice of 24k gold gilding, her paintings are known for exuding depth and mystery that draw in the viewer.
Commenting on set up of the display, the gallery wrote on Instagram, “Breaking with conventional and traditional standards (white and opaque), Viktor’s solo booth is black and latticed. Titled The Black Ark, the site-specific installation unites artistic, design and architectural practice to explore notions of race, history, ownership and discovery. Referring to both mashrabia veils and the fishnets of Liberian fisherman, the confined yet revealing space symbolically recaptures lost narratives, existing before the formation of artificial nations.”
Viktor recently made headlines for suing Kendrick Lamar and SZA for allegedly using her work in the visual for “All the Stars,” a single featured on the Black Panther soundtrack. Viktor says creative content inspired by her “Constellations I,” “Constellations II” and “Constellations III” works were used in the video despite her refusing permission.
In the midst of litigation, Viktor could not comment on the current status of the case. However, she expressed her resolve to continue to create compelling work, despite the unforeseen adversity the court case generated.
Known for championing unique talent, gallery director Ibrahim stated she’s pleased with the partnership with plans for an extensive art fair and exhibition schedule throughout 2018.
Viktor will have a solo show at New Orleans Museum of Art this fall.
