4Me4You Features - ‘BLACK HISTORY PAINTING’.
At the heart of Donkor’s artistic oeuvre lies a dual mission: not only does he endeavour to reintegrate these marginalised figures into contemporary consciousness, but he also offers a critical examination of the art historical tradition of history painting.
He achieves this not only through stylistic nods but also through deliberate references to specific artworks. For instance, his piece ‘Nanny of the Maroons: Fifth Act of Mercy’ (2012), currently displayed at the National Portrait Gallery, subtly mirrors Joshua Reynolds’ portrait ‘Jane Fleming, Later Countess of Harrington’ (1778), spotlighting the lineage of a British aristocrat whose family profited from Jamaican plantation enslavement.
Drawing from historical documentation, speculative imagination, and the very essence of history painting, Donkor proposes a more inclusive understanding of the genre—one that transcends the confines of colonialist perspectives. In his latest exhibition at Niru Ratnam, Donkor unveils two poignant new paintings, extending his ongoing narrative. Complementing these are selections from his 2014 repertoire and notable works showcased at the Sharjah Biennial (2023), along with accompanying pieces on paper and a captivating film installation.
