Leroy Campbell has been capturing scenes from black life for over 20 years in portraits that are at once charming, witty and touching. From the trademark torn edges that evoke a strong sense of nostalgia to the vibrant, eye catching colors, Campbell's art has been featured in such hit television programs as "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "The Cosby Show." This Friday, Campbell will present his newest collection, The Newspaper Series, at the Mary Lou Williams Center for Black Culture.
The Newspaper Series is based off of the traditions of South Carolina's Gullah population, who warded off malicious spirits by papering the walls of their houses with newsprint. To that end, each piece in the collection features Campbell's silhouetted subjects against a backdrop of newspaper. Each article intentionally transports the reader to several historic events in the African American community, most recently the 2008 presidential election.
"The pieces in the series are particularly relevant to our center's mission and aligned with our connection to Sankofa--the African concept of reaching back and gathering the best of what our past has taught us in order to reach our full potential as we move forward," said Chandra Guinn, director of the Mary Lou Williams Center, in a press release.
After the unveiling, the works will join the center's permanent collection.
Leroy Campbell will present The Newspaper Series and give short talk Friday April 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Mary Lou Williams Center.
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