Untitled
[Josephine Baker]
40” x 52” Acrylic and collage on canvas
2018

Collection of Erika Gibson

Josephine Baker’s signature style is under-acknowledged for its profound influence on the shape of modern aesthetics. From architecture to fine arts, her inimitable dance vernacular adorned with sleek couture introduced a silhouette that is still as unabashedly replicated by contemporary audiences as it was by her prominent Parisian peer group. Referencing the Parisian poster of the early 1930’s by Jean Chassaing, Imar amplifies Baker’s Art Deco style by layering bejeweled shapes, each framing elements of her personal history. Of the narratives illustrated by collaged source images, her conception of building a global family is portrayed within the sculpted coif that she is most famous for donning. Her progressive dream is literally on her mind and figuratively on her heart.