Dynamic Artist Brings Colorful, Mixed Media Exhibit to Mullins Library

Angela Davis Johnson (Self Portrait)

This is the artist behind University Libraries' latest exhibit, black lace.arrangements. Check it out before you leave for summer!

The University Libraries is pleased to host Angela Davis Johnson's latest exhibit "black lace.arrangements," on view now through June 30 in Mullins Library. Seen up close, the energetic collection of mixed media pieces reveals to the viewer layers and textures of collaged acrylic or oil paints, found paper, and fabric.

Davis Johnson describes the show as "a series of portraits and 'peopled landscapes' that explores the intricate pattern of black women reconciling with the arrangement of being the descendants of un-remembered queens, slaves, domestics, creators and matriarchs."

The artist's use of lace, a fabric made by looping, twisting, or knitting thread in patterns, is a visual metaphor that asks the artist and viewer to consider what black womanhood means for each individual, as well as for the collective.

"black lace. arrangements" is inspired in part by an excerpt from Nayyirah Waheed's poem salt, and each piece is a glimpse into a seemingly unceremonious act, such as going out, congregating on the corner, or standing in the WIC line, that shown together tell a larger story.

#NightAirCanBePoison uses acrylic paint and paper on a large 48" x 48" canvas. At a glance, viewers see two young women getting ready for a night out, situated in a messy room littered with blow dryers, fancy shoes, and jewelry. Closer inspection reveals quotes from newspaper articles on the Steubenville High School rape, a case that garnered nationwide attention and commentary, especially due to the role of social media in its development and documentation.

Well-known for vibrant, narrative paintings like these, examining shared connections, identity and historical occurrences through personal symbols, Davis Johnson navigates between academic influences and outsider art individuality. She is a signature member of Arkansas League of Artists, and her work can be seen in galleries and private collections throughout the United States. Davis Johnson currently splits her time between Little Rock, AR and Atlanta, GA, and more information is available at her website, www.angeladavisjohnson.com.  

The exhibit is located on the main floor, Level 2, of Mullins Library, and can be viewed any time Mullins is open to the public. Please refer to our schedule online, or call the exhibit coordinator, Martha Guirl-Phillips, at 479-575-6702, for more information. Prices are available upon request.