Awol Erizku Explores Malcolm X's Legacy at CAAM Solo Exhibition
Highlighting interdisciplinary works of “Afro-esotericism.”
Summary
- Awol Erizku pays homage to Malcolm X through new and recent works
- Themes include faith, identity and transformation
- On view at CAAM through September 7, organized with SCAD Museum of Art
Awol Erizku’s new exhibition at the California African American Museum (CAAM) takes a personal look at the life and meaning of Malcolm X. Titled Awol Erizku: X, the show doesn’t try to explain Malcolm’s legacy in a straightforward way. Instead, it builds a layered portrait using film, photography, sculpture, music and historical materials.
For Erizku, Malcolm X is not just a historical figure. He becomes a lens through which to explore bigger ideas like faith, identity, transformation and the ties between Africa and the United States. The artist brings his own visual language to the work, which he calls “Afro-esotericism.” His longstanding exploration that blends African mythology with modern culture and spiritual themes.
The show originally appeared at the SCAD Museum of Art in Georgia. At CAAM, it includes new pieces like Erizku’s striking black Nefertiti disco ball. This work, like the others, holds layers of symbolism and invites the viewer to think differently about how Black history and identity are shown in art.
Curated by Daniel S. Palmer at SCAD and Cameron Shaw at CAAM, the exhibition overall presents Malcolm X as a figure of ongoing cultural relevance. Awol Erizku: X is on view at CAAM through September 7.
CAAM
600 State Drive
Exposition Park
Los Angeles, CA 90037
