Silhouette Art of Mississippi

As an art form, the silhouette has a long tradition in the culture of the American South. During the 19th century, it was a popular medium for portraiture before photography became more widely available, and was found in the homes of many Mississippi elites. However, it was also employed to depict images of slaves and freedmen. In the Mississippi Museum of Art's new exhibition, Black Out: Silhouettes Then and Now, three contemporary artists—Kara Walker, Camille Utterback, and Kumi Yamashita—will re-examine and re-imagine the silhouette to broaden understandings of its place in the past and in the present. 

In conjunction with Black Out, 17 additional works from the collections of Lansdowne House, the Historic New Orleans Collection, and the Museum itself in a separate exhibit called A Closer Look: Silhouette Artists in Antebellum Mississippi. This "focus" exhibit, created by Museum Chief Curator Dr. Roger Ward, highlights works by the most famous "scissor artists" of the early 19th century during their sojourns in New Orleans, Natchez, and Vicksburg—depicting portraits of both eminent Mississippians and celebrities visiting the South. Featured artists include Sarah Pearce Vick, Edward McGehee, and Dr. Montroville Wilson Dickeson. 

Both exhibitions will be on display at the museum from April 27–August 25.

Don't miss: 

On May 3, Museum chief curator Dr. Roger Ward will present a gallery talk, "In Black and White," sharing his insights about both exhibits. 11:30–noon. Free. 

On May 14, for the Museum's monthly Art Nights series, Museum Director of School and Academic Programs Isabel Gray will lead participants in taking a closer look at a selection of pieces in Black Out. Participants will also learn about the physiognotrace—an instrument used in producing silhouettes, and participate in a hands-on demonstration in exploring its functionality and form. 5:45 pm. Free. 

On May 17, silhouette artist Sarah Rick will give a talk and demonstration highlighting the importance of the live interaction between artist and subject as exemplified in Black Out. 11:30–noon. Free. 

msmuseumart.org.