What's Happening?
Betye Saar, a pivotal figure in the West Coast Black Arts movement, is being honored with an exhibition titled 'Let's Get It On: The Wearable Art of Betye Saar' at Roberts Projects in Los Angeles. The exhibition, which opens on May 30, showcases over
200 objects, including costume designs, garments, and jewelry, highlighting a lesser-known aspect of Saar's artistic journey. This exhibition coincides with Saar's 100th birthday and aims to shed light on her contributions to wearable art, which played a significant role in her development as an artist. The show is part of a series of celebrations marking Saar's centennial, including another exhibition at the New York Historical Society.
Why It's Important?
The exhibition is important as it highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black artists to the American art scene, particularly in the realm of wearable art. Betye Saar's work has been instrumental in challenging traditional narratives and expanding the boundaries of contemporary assemblage art. By focusing on her wearable art, the exhibition provides a comprehensive view of Saar's creative process and her influence on future generations of artists. It also underscores the role of art as a medium for cultural expression and social change, particularly in the context of the civil rights movement and its aftermath.
