Kori Newkirk Essay

Kori Newkirk… there is something particular about him and his works… What is it? I can not tell it right now. I must have a think. I must feel it. I need to see his works one more time. Yes, it is what I need – to see them again. They are different from others because they radiate some inner energy and strength. They are powerful and expressive. His works are as magnetic as the author.

Kori Newkirk… What do I know about him? He is African American and he tries to combine ethnical motifs and with his views. He is interested in his origin and examines it, trying to give his ancestors their due. He creates works that are devoted to his family and makes these works modern and expressive. Photos of the members of his family in suspended tires. Seems rather strange? Perhaps… However, it is in these tires that the photos gain some particular meaning and significance. The studio museum of Harlem, which presents his exhibitions, has the common aim with Kori Newkirk to support the development of African American art and to carry down to people the spirit of African American people.

All Newkirk’s works bear an ethnical tinge. It might be because they are created by the person with strong spirit of his past or because his paintings and installations are made of beads, braids, wax or hair pomade. He does not need any sophisticated materials to create a picture that will fill you with energy. Newkirk’s inner energy bursts from his works.