Arthur Jafa

Art and Obsolescence

This week on the show we’re in the artist’s studio visiting the one and only Arthur Jafa. From his extensive work in cinema, to his video art, sculpture, and other mixed media work shown in a contemporary art context – AJ’s work is often an embodiment of Black identity in America, and he is often cited with being a leader among a generation of artists creating defining a distinctly Black cinematic language. This extends as well into current projects on the more infrastructural / business side of the film industry in the form of his project Sun Haus. Visiting with AJ and hearing his story was a real treat, and it is one with many twists and turns – in our chat we trace his story all the way from growing up in Tupelo Mississippi in the 60s and 70s to today. and he takes us deeply inside the full kaleidoscope of influences, vibrations, and inspirations that he picked up along the way, and has integrated into his work as an artist and film maker: From gospel music – to James White and the Contortions, and from Oscar Micheaux to 2001 a Space Odyssey. Tune in to hear AJ’s story!
This episode is brought to you thanks the generous support of the Kramlich Art Foundation
Links from the conversation with Arthur Jafa
> SunHaus: https://sunhaus.us/
> Gladstone Gallery: https://www.gladstonegallery.com/artist/arthur-jafa/works

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Art and Obsolescence is a non-profit podcast, sponsored by the New York Foundation for the Arts, and we are committed to equitably supporting artists that come on the show. Help support our work by making a tax deductible gift through NYFA here: https://www.artandobsolescence.com/donate