THUG LIFE
William Barton III (Winter Park, FL)
Oil, 40” W x 30” H
Artwork:
My artwork refers to the perception of a large portion of society and how they perceive African Americans in this county. As seen through the most notable black athletes, moments and teams within American sports. All of which included on this painting have been called “thugs” and insulted because of their emotions shown within their respective sports. Within sports these particular people are just seen as overly aggressive, but tempered because they are celebrities and entertainers that we recognize. Outside of sports, being seen as a “thug” or anything similar can have more dangerous consequences for people of color in this country.
Artist Statement:
My art explores the meanings behind the decisions and occurrences of those within sports organizations and how societies responses (then and now) reflect their view on African Americans as a whole, in and out of sports. Rendered in oil paint, these paintings collectively focus on the stories of African Americans throughout the history of sports that have gone overlooked and underreported over time. These compositions illustrate topics that convey messages as powerful as they are revealing and challenges the progress society has made in terms of equality and prejudice. I intend to display these truths in an effort to create empathy towards the modern day (predominantly minority) athlete. Highlighting the African American beliefs, feelings and their personal journeys is my way of bridging the gap between the perception of a physical specimen that can withstand any criticism, insult or pre-conceived notion and them just being civilians with physical talents.