2020 marks 50 years since children living in the Harold Ickes Homes sat for portraits that were used as visual aides in Chicago classrooms and libraries. Inspired by those portraits taken in 1970, Jeyifous has photographed a selection of the children of the “Black ABCs” today as adults, celebrating the beauty and historic impact that those images and individuals still hold. Expanding on the definition of portraiture, Jeyifous blurs his practice as a photographer and scientist by creating rare digital art works. The collages, a combination of overlaid visualizations, includes the individuals’ cells combined with traditionally styled portraits. This blend of artistic, medical, and clinical styles of portraiture raises questions and critiques about the complicated and often problematic history of science, medicine and Black subjectivity.

Presented by Arts + Public Life, with generous sponsorship from the Arts, Science + Culture Initiative and Center for the Study of Race, Politics and Culture.

Curated by: Arts + Public Life Curatorial Team

Image credit: Daris Jasper

EXHIBITION RELATED PROGRAM

Science, Medicine and the Black Body

March 4

2020

Science, Medicine and the Black Body was a panel discussion with Okunola Jeyifous, artist and neurobiologist, and Doriane Miller, MD, moderated by editor and writer Sandria Washington. This discussion explored historic science and medical practices that intentionally targeted and disproportionately harmed communities of color. Participants reflected on changes to racist policies and practices that have led to more ethical research and humane practices, and will identify areas needing further improvements.