This spring, the American Folk Art Museum (AFAM) is set to unveil Self-Made: A Century of Inventing Artists, a groundbreaking exhibition that critically examines the concept of the "self-taught artist" in the United States. This exhibition explores the themes of authorship, agency, and self-representation, showcasing 90 works that span from the early 20th century to the present day. The artworks are organized around three main strategies: self-portraiture, alter egos, and autobiography.
Self-Made marks the first in-depth museum investigation into the artistic self-fashioning of individuals who have historically operated outside traditional art institutions. This includes artists marginalized due to race, gender, disability, and other factors that diverge from established power dynamics. The exhibition redefines these creators as pivotal figures in the narrative of modern and contemporary art, rather than peripheral players.
Featuring a diverse array of mediums such as paintings, drawings, sculptures, videos, photographs, and artist books--many of which are being displayed for the first time--the exhibition draws significantly from the Museum's collection. It builds upon AFAM's Rethinking Biography initiative, which aims to emphasize the unique voices and perspectives of each artist, placing their contributions at the forefront of interpretation.
Highlighted artists include Henry Darger, Clémentine Hunter, and Martín Ramírez, alongside notable international figures like Aloïse Corbaz and Adolf Wölfli, as well as contemporary talents such as Nicole Appel, Susan Janow, and Joe Coleman. This eclectic mix fosters a vibrant dialogue that bridges different cultures and lived experiences.
By focusing on self-invention as both a method and a message, Self-Made provides an inclusive and illuminating perspective on artistic identity. The exhibition invites viewers to reconsider the narratives surrounding self-taught artists and their vital roles in the art world.
The American Folk Art Museum is conveniently located at 2 Lincoln Square, across from Lincoln Center. Admission remains free, reflecting the Museum's dedication to accessible public engagement.