To create the illusion of sky, space, and story, artist Kara Walker employs antebellum artforms like silhouettes, magic lanterns, and cycloramas—a curved, seamless backdrop used in theater or film to create a panoramic view. Through colorful light and wandering shadows, Walker enlivens the work’s environment and creates a play between dimensions, history, and imagination.
Consider a story that you would like to shine a light upon and create your own personal cycloramas using screenprinting, colored gels, mylar, and drawing tools.
Organized in conjunction with Some American Dreams.
