WAKE
Antonio Darden
PRESS RELEASE
At Independent 2026, Antonio Darden will bring together artworks illuminating his
ongoing fascination with the Black Church. Works spanning multiple mediums pay funny,
trippy homage to certain gospel stars, all of whom are known for a very particular stage
presence: Mama Burks and her hair; Mr. Cleveland keenly working the congregation; Mr.
Kee and his choral command; a classic choir scene in a classic Black film. Alongside Mr.
Vandross, a church skeptic, readying his Glastonbury performance and a ne’er-do-well
surveilling the situation. Combined, they materialize the lore and allure of the monumental
cultural setting that frames Black spiritual expression.
Untitled (Perform) , 2024
Single channel video loop (1920 x 1080 px), monitor
Dimensions variable
edition of 1
Untitled (Monitoring Spirit), 2026
Single channel video loop (3840 x 2160 px), monitor, mount
Dimensions variable
edition of 1
Sang James (BOJ), 2022
Mixed media: plexiglass, speakers, pastel on paper, mp3 audio recording by artist
Dimensions variable
Untitled (Mosie Rose #1), 2026
Three-frame lenticular animation on plexiglass
20 x 26 x 2 1/2 in. / 51 x 66 x 6 cm
Untitled (Mosie Rose #2), 2026
Three-frame lenticular animation on plexiglass
20 x 26 x 2 1/2 in. / 51 x 66 x 6 cm
Untitled (Mosie Rose #3), 2026
Three-frame lenticular animation on plexiglass
20 x 26 x 2 1/2 in. / 51 x 66 x 6 cm
Fed, 2025
Video loop (3840 x 2160px), monitor, mini blinds
20 x 24 x 5 in. / 51 x 61 x 12 cm
edition of 1
Untitled (JPK), 2021
Poplar wood, acrylic paint, brass chain, cast plastic,
archival pigment print, plexiglass
30 x 24 x 3in. / 76 x 61 x 8 cm
BOJ Jr., 2026
Plexiglass, graphite on paper
Dimensions variable