Sanford Biggers

What I want to do is code-switch. To have there be layers of history and politics, but also this heady, arty stuffinside jokes, black humorthat you might have to take a while to research if you want to really get it.Sanford Biggers Sanford Biggers (b. 1970) is a Harlem-based artist working in various media including painting, sculpture, video, and performance. He describes his practice as code-switchingmixing disparate elements to create layers of meaningto account for his wide-ranging interests. This catalogue focuses on a series of repurposed quilts (many made in the 19th century) that embodies this interest in mixture. Informed by the significance of quilts to the Underground Railroad, Biggers transforms the quilts into new works using materials such as paint, tar, glitter, and charcoal to add his own layers of codes, whether they be historical, political, or purely artistic. Insightful essays survey Biggerss career, his art in relation to music, and the history upon which the series draws. Also featured is a short yet powerful graphic essay by an award-winning illustrator that introduces the layered meanings inherent in the art and craft of quilting. Published in association with The Bronx Museum of the Arts Exhibition Schedule: The Bronx Museum of the Arts (September 9, 2020January 24, 2021) California African American Museum, Los Angeles (July 28, 2021January 23, 2022) Speed Art Museum, Louisville (March 18June 26, 2022)