Derrick Adams

Derrick Adams is a contemporary American artist whose work spans across painting, collage, sculpture, performance, video, and sound installations. Born in 1970 in Baltimore, Maryland, Adams received his BFA from Pratt Institute and an MFA from Columbia University. He also completed the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture Program.

Adams is known for his vibrant, figurative works that explore the intersection of Black identity, cultural history, and personal narrative. His art often addresses themes of representation, identity, and the African American experience in the United States. One of his notable series, "Floater," presents portraits of Black people leisurely floating in water, challenging stereotypical representations and highlighting moments of joy and relaxation.

Adams' work has been exhibited in numerous prestigious institutions, including the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, the Studio Museum in Harlem, and the Brooklyn Museum. His art is held in several public collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York.

In addition to his artistic practice, Adams is an educator and mentor, having taught at several institutions and participated in various community-based art projects. He is celebrated for his innovative approach to contemporary art and his commitment to representing and empowering Black communities through his work.  (Artist Website)