About the artwork
Hank Willis Thomas
North Star, 2013
Dimensions(h x w x d): 67-3/4" x 68" x 2-5/8"
Digital chromogenic prints in stained African Mahogany frame with glass
Located in
Fariborz Maseeh Hall, third floor study lounge
North Star was made as part of a photographic sequence that literally re-frames slavery and civil rights in America using two coded structures: the flag frame—a vessel of historic commemoration and familial pride—and the quilt motif, such as the North Star, which was used to communicate directions on the Underground Railroad.
About the artist
Hank Willis Thomas is a conceptual artist working primarily with themes related to Black identity, commodity, media, and popular culture. His work has been exhibited throughout the United States and abroad including the International Center of Photography, New York and the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Spain. Learn more about his work on his website.
This work was acquired through Oregon's Percent for Art in Public Places Program, managed by the Oregon Arts Commission.
Banner image courtesy of the artist and Jack Shainman Gallery.