Space is the Place! Afrofuturist Art from B.E.S.T. High School
In conjunction with several Sun-Ra Exhibitions at HPAC, we are proud to display new Afrofuturist artworks by students from B.E.S.T. High School, led by art teacher Bert Stabler.
A HUGE smiling robot!
The Art 1 students at B.E.S.T. High School have been learning about the aesthetics of “Afrofuturism,” a trend in African-American music and art that began in the 1950s, with the music and costumes of Chicago jazz pioneer Sun-Ra and his band, the Solar Arkestra. “Afrofuturism” is a term describing African-American culture that combines traditional African forms, like those from ancient Egypt and traditional sub-Saharan communities, with the science-fiction imagery of the space age, finding in this combination remarkable possibilities for new ideas of political as well as technological progress.
The pieces they were invited to create included a robot or space vehicle constructed from Styrofoam and cardboard that included African elements, a painted mask made from paper mache that showed some science-fiction influence, a drawing that made clear the concept of Afrofuturism, and a costume constructed in a manner suggesting both African and futuristic aesthetics.
The show will be on display through February, so come check it out!
…and if you are a student in Mr. Stabler’s class, we would love for you to comment on this blog and tell us about your inspiration for making such great Afrofuturist work!
A view of the show
A group of sculptures and masks
The Afrofuturist influences are clear
Sun Ra would be proud…
Comments [1]
Jun.10.2009
By candy
All the things displayed in the exhibition are really great piece of art.Everyone has some hidden talent and art in themselves but a guide is required who could not only help in identifying but also in making that art flourish.I think the work of the B.E.S.T students and the art teacher Bert Stabler is appreciable.The smiling robot is a good piece of art.
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candy
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camper trailer--camper trailer