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Exhibition

Art in the Atrium

Kerry James Marshall
February 26, 2009–October 11, 2011

Specially commissioned for SFMOMA, Kerry James Marshall’s monumental murals in the Haas Atrium show Mount Vernon and Monticello, the estates of American presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Although these cherished sites have been depicted countless times, Marshall’s paintings stand apart by incorporating images of the slaves who supported plantation life. At first glance, a number of optical tricks conceal them from view, but visitors who engage in the artist’s visual game will discover figures that are so often omitted from representations of American history.

Art in the Atrium: Kerry James Marshall is presented to the public thanks to the generosity of the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund.

Kerry James Marshall, drawing of large grassy estate
Kerry James Marshall, drawing of estate with colorful blocks and trees and grass

Kerry James Marshall; Visible Means of Support: Mount Vernon, 2009; photo: courtesy of the artist; © Kerry James Marshall

Kerry James Marshall; Visible Means of Support: Monticello, 2009; photo: courtesy of the artist; © Kerry James Marshall