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.

[@greatmindsthinkalike1378]

Very detailed and vibrant, very nice ❤

[@JohnDoe-pz6xc]

That’s some Nice Art!!!

[@VioletFem]

Marcel’s work is beautiful!

[@اسحاق-ر3د]

انها لوحات جميلة جدا
شكرا لكم❤❤🎉🎉🎉

[@c.retana-holguin8318]

Your work is exceptional! I enjoy the vibrant patterns and application of patterns on the canvas and faces, and I admire the huge amount of time spent creating this. Your idea of symbolic masking as a protective aura sounds fascinating.

[@Sunday3]

Beautiful work, sir.
As a fellow artist I have a suggestion: how about changing the title of this video so people can happen upon the work through its subjects, themes, symbology or your goals for the work. Thus attracting people unfamiliar with your name or Hillyer.

[@IAAHillyer]

We also include hashtags which help with searches. Thanks for feedback

[@Sunday3]

Not meant to be pushy. I just think it deserves way more views.

[@pr1me840]

I'm bored with woke art. Anything else? I'm curious why so many tribal patterns are used. A mix of different African tribal patterns. I don't see the connection?

[@christopherrodgers815]

You're acting like art is the equivalent of a radio request line. Nobody cares about what excites or bores you. You're witnessing artistic vision. This is not art by committee, crafted to please limited thinkers. The work is titled Unapologetic, especially for goofies like you.

[@pr1me840]

@@christopherrodgers815 Yes it's crafted for the limited. aGreed. By American Leftest drones for American Leftest bots. There is no vision there just blind leading the blind. I guess you are untouchable and an African like me is goofy for pointing out the obvious. And I think 70% of your own country now cares that it bores me. hahaha.