The Brooklyn Museum presents "Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys," a groundbreaking exhibition showcasing 98 artworks by prominent Black American, African, and African diasporic artists. This unprecedented collection, curated by Kimberli Gant, offers a journey into the heart of Black artistry and cultural identity.
The exhibition marks the 1st major showcase of the world-class art collection owned by musical and cultural icons Swizz Beatz (Kasseem Dean) and Alicia Keys. Featuring 37 “Giants” including Kehinde Wiley, Esther Mahlangu, Nina Chanel Abney, Arthur Jafa, and Amy Sherald among others.
From Ebony G. Patterson’s installations - an ode to childhood to Kehinde Wiley’s bold portraiture challenging traditional notions of representation and empowering Black subjects, Esther Mahlangu's geometric masterpieces pay homage to South African heritage by reimagining the tradition of South African Ndebele house painting, while Meleko Mokgosi's vibrant paintings oer critical commentary on power dynamics in Botswana.
"We want you to feel connected and emotional and really discover artists that maybe you know of, maybe you don't know of, maybe you're seeing for the first time, We want you to see the giants on whose shoulders we stand." - Alicia Keys
The significance of "Giants" extends beyond the corners of the gallery walls, resonating with a broader trend among Western collectors and patrons seeking out and advocating for African artworks. This trend marks a pivotal shift towards inclusivity and diversity within the art world, challenging historical imbalances and fostering a more nuanced understanding of African cultures and identities.
Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys, through their Dean Collection, have played a pivotal role in championing inclusivity and community building in the arts. Their support for emerging African artists, exemplified by initiatives like "The Dean's Choice," underscores their commitment to amplifying Black voices and reshaping art narratives on a global scale.
Curators Kimberli Gant and Indira A. Abiskaroon emphasize the importance of including works by African artists in collections like the Dean Collection, noting that it challenges historical imbalances and celebrates the richness and diversity of contemporary African art.
In the words of Alicia Keys, "We want you to feel connected and emotional and really discover artists that maybe you know of, maybe you don't know of, maybe you're seeing for the first time." Through their collection, Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys aim to inspire audiences, encouraging them to recognize the giants on whose shoulders we all stand.
Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys is organized by Kimberli Gant, Curator, Modern and Contemporary Art, and Indira A. Abiskaroon, Curatorial Assistant, Modern and Contemporary Art.
"Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys" is on display at the Brooklyn Museum from February 10th to July 7th, 2024.
About Swizz Beat and Alicia Keys
Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys stand as an iconic power couple in the music industry, their combined talents transcending genres and leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. Swizz Beatz, with his groundbreaking production skills and entrepreneurial acumen, has shaped the sound of hip-hop and R&B for decades, while Alicia Keys, renowned for her soulful voice and masterful piano skills, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with her timeless music and impassioned advocacy. Together, they embody a dynamic synergy that extends far beyond their individual artistry, inspiring audiences with their creativity, activism, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
About the Brooklyn Museum
Located on the ancestral homeland of the Lenape (Delaware) people, the Brooklyn Museum is dedicated to honoring Indigenous heritage while actively confronting historical exclusions and settler colonial legacies. With a mission to unite people through art and transformative experiences, the museum aims to inspire celebration, compassion, and social action. Embracing diversity and inclusion, the institution seeks to challenge traditional narratives, engage diverse perspectives, and foster empathy and respect among visitors. Committed to openness, free expression, and social impact, the Brooklyn Museum serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue, cultural vibrancy, and positive change within its communities and beyond.
