Interview with Marcel Taylor

Marcel Taylor
Unapologetic

November 2–December 3, 2024

Marcel Taylor’s Unapologetic presents a powerful counter-narrative to the often reductive portrayals of Black culture in popular media. His work not only critiques the sensationalism in the media but also reclaims space for dignity and strength within Black narratives. Through works like “Elegance Personified,” Taylor elevates Black womanhood, emphasizing confidence and refinement over hyper sexualization. This portrayal invites viewers to see the subject not just through the lens of societal stereotypes but as a multifaceted individual of dignity.

The themes of fortitude and identity are further explored in pieces like “Skeptical Eyes” and “Cynical Mood,” where the invisible face “masks” symbolize the double consciousness described by W.E.B. Du Bois. These works highlight the internal struggles faced by individuals who must navigate a world that often misrepresents them.

In “Entangled Souls,” the protective costumes inspired by traditional African art serve both as armor against societal judgments and as a celebration of cultural heritage. The patterns evoke a sense of superhero strength, reinforcing the idea that these individuals possess an inner resilience that challenges the dominant narratives.

Hillyer is supported by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, the Jon and Shirley Foundation, the Galena Foundation, and the Mars Foundation.