artist_talk

Laylah Ali is a contemporary visual artist renowned for her distinctive style of painting. Her artworks portray complex and uncertain racial dynamics with striking graphic characteristics reminiscent of cartoon strips.

Ali shares the story of how she started creating their characters in an interview. The process began in 1996 when she fashioned a figure that combined a large green head with a slender, almost childlike superhero body. This portrayal challenged the traditional concept of a superhero. Perplexed by the meaning behind this unconventional creation, Ali felt compelled to explore it further. As she continued working, she desired a clearer perspective and thus placed the figures against simple blue backgrounds with a white floor, which distinguished them. Throughout the years, Ali's characters have evolved, becoming more intricate while still maintaining a sense of focus and simplicity reminiscent of his earlier works.

In terms of the artist's personal life, a multitude of elements find expression in their artwork. Upon viewing the paintings, particularly the earlier pieces, one can discern traces of their childhood memories and firsthand experiences. However, the artist tends to avoid openly discussing these deeply personal matters, as they hold a profound significance for them. Instead, these personal facets become integral to the artwork, exerting their influence and adding depth to its overall composition. By intertwining personal elements with broader narratives, the artist seeks to enhance the impact of their work, aiming to evoke a personal resonance while simultaneously addressing universal themes.

Laylah Ali, Untitled (from the Acephalous series), 2015. Gouache, acrylic, and pencil on paper, 29.5 x 23 inches.

Laylah Ali, Sky (from Land, Sea, Sky series), 2014. Gouache, acrylic, and pencil on board, 10 x 11 inches.

Untitled, 2005-2007, gouache on paper, 20” x 27.” Courtesy of Laylah Ali

Ali's artworks prompt viewers to contribute their own narratives when confronted with inquiries about race, class, gender, and power.

Race has consistently been a focal point in the artist's body of work, progressing from symbolic representations of race relations in America to a comprehensive exploration through remarkably blended figures. These figures possess traits derived from both Western and non-Western cultures, deliberately lacking a clear association with any specific origin or context.

Nevertheless, Ali's creations address instances of ethnic and sectarian identity, along with the resulting violence based on such affiliations, that occur worldwide. By transcending boundaries and challenging traditional categorizations, her art incites contemplation on these significant issues and their impact on society.

“THAT’S THE GREAT ESCAPE FROM MEANING— YOU CAN DESCRIBE A LINE AS POWERFUL, DELICATE, FRANTIC, WHATEVER STRIKES YOUR EYE VISUALLY— BUT NOT TALK ABOUT THE LINE BEING A NOOSE.”

Laylah Ali, The Believer | Issue Thirty

Annotated Bibliography

“Laylah Ali.” Art21, art21.org/artist/laylah-ali/. Accessed 24 June 2023.

“Meaning and Influences.” Art21, art21.org/read/laylah-ali-meaning-and-influences/.Accessed 24 June 2023.

“An Interview with Laylah Ali.” Believer Magazine, 1 Jan. 2006, www.thebeliever.net/an-interview-with-laylah-ali/. Accessed 24 June 2023.

“To Actively Resist Despair”: An Interview with Laylah Ali.” Conversation X, conversationx.com/articles/artist-laylah-ali. Accessed 24 June 2023.