Deborah Roberts

Between them

Renowned American artist Deborah Roberts unveils a compelling paper collage showcasing a trio of black children. Positioned on the left is a girl donning a tiara and vibrant red shoes, while the middle showcases a boy adorned in flowery pants, and on the right stands another boy in a striking bright blue T-shirt. The nuances of the collage technique are discernible in the expressive faces of these youthful subjects.

Art Style: Deborah Roberts' Evocative Exploration of Black Boyhood

Deborah Roberts specializes in creating figurative collages and paintings that intricately blend found images with hand-painted details, all centered around the nuanced experiences of Black boyhood in the United States. Through her artistic lens, Roberts not only captures the lives of Black boys but also establishes and preserves a space for their innocence and vulnerability. Her work becomes a sanctuary where these young individuals can be children—free to explore, occupy space, and be seen without the burden of societal expectations.

In her artistry, Roberts delivers a potent critique of systemic injustices, societal expectations, and the myriad biases that persistently affect the lives of Black children. Through a keen exploration of these themes, she contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the challenges faced by these young individuals, prompting viewers to confront and reconsider their perceptions.

Roberts' body of work not only reflects but actively engages, contributes to, and challenges prevailing notions of childhood. It serves as a dynamic commentary on the multifaceted experiences of Black boys, fostering a deeper understanding of their narratives and pushing against the limitations imposed by societal norms.

Unique Features. Emotions and Mood of "Between them"

Deftly navigating a spectrum of emotions, the figures depicted by Deborah Roberts emerge as simultaneously heroic and insecure, playful yet serious, powerful and vulnerable—comprehensive portrayals of Black personhood. Infused with the artist's distinctive use of lively colors, bold black and white stripes, florals, and polka dots, the children emanate the carefree essence of youth.

In this particular series, the children's uninhibited poses convey a sense of freedom and relaxation, speaking to their inherent power and innocence. These artworks encapsulate the intrinsic beauty that resides within each of us, capturing the essence of the joyous, unfettered spirit of youth.

Exploring Beauty, Race, and Identity: The Artistry of Deborah Roberts

In her thought-provoking works, Deborah Roberts delves into the complexities of beauty, race, and identity in our contemporary society, primarily through the portrayal of Black children. Through her art, Roberts offers a compelling critique of systemic injustices, societal expectations, and the pervasive biases that continue to shape the lives of these young individuals.

Beyond the visual representations, Roberts extends her commentary into text-based works, skillfully juxtaposing words to expose the deep-seated racism and biases embedded in language and linguistic systems. Her art becomes a powerful medium through which she challenges and questions prevailing norms.

Over the past decade, Roberts has concentrated her artistic lens on the imagery of young girls, initially starting with self-portraits from her childhood. In recent years, she has expanded her focus to include young boys, broadening the scope of her exploration into the multifaceted dimensions of youth, identity, and societal expectations. This evolution in her artistic narrative adds a nuanced layer to her critique, inviting viewers to reconsider preconceived notions and biases in the broader context of childhood and adolescence.