Provenance
The artist; sold through Jack Shainman Gallery, New York [copy of invoice in curatorial object file], to the Art Institute of Chicago, October 13, 2008.
Accession Number
192692
Medium
Acrylic on Plexiglas
Dimensions
186 × 155 cm (73 1/4 × 61 in.)
Classification
acrylic paintings (visual works)
Credit Line
Through prior gift of Adeline Yates; Benjamin Argile Memorial, Cyrus Hall McCormick, Alfred and May Tiefenbronner Memorial, Mr. and Mrs. Frank G. Logan Prize, Pauline Palmer Prize, Broadus James Clarke Memorial, Norman Wait Harris Prize, William H. Bartels Prize, Joyce Van Pilsum, Laura T. Magnuson Acquisition, Ann M. Vielehr Prize, and Ada S. Garrett Prize funds; Flora Mayer Witkowsky Award for American Art; Boles C. and Hyacinth G. Drechney and Mr. and Mrs. J.F. Brower Prize funds; The Municipal Art League Prize for Portraiture; Marjorie and Louis Susman, Martin B. Cahn Prize, and Elisabeth Mathews funds
Background & Context
Background Story
Kerry James Marshall's Vignette #2 (2005) is an acrylic on Plexiglas painting from the earlier phase of the Vignette series. The subject is a scene from African American life. The Plexiglas support allows the painting to relate to the wall behind it in a unique way. The acrylic technique requires careful handling. Marshall's execution is assured, the colors vibrant, the forms clear. This work established the format for the later Vignettes.
Cultural Impact
Marshall's Vignette series is a masterclass in the art of the small painting.
Why It Matters
This early vignette on Plexiglas established the format for Marshall's series, the transparent support and precise handling creating a work of concentrated beauty.
