Rumors of war by Kehinde Wiley is a monument that embodies what it means to be black in America, portraying this community in a powerful light through a method of which they are often underrepresented. He modernizes and portrays a strong message to all Americans that unity is required in order to create an “equal America”.
It is no secret that the black community in America are often stereotyped and have received more violence as a result of their differences. Wiley’s work is monumental in helping to provide a pathway to equality and removing this power injustice that exists within America as he creates the statute of the young man on the horse, a direct appropriation of traditional statues placed all over America, and the world representing “strong” leaders. His work is helping to shift this power dynamic and is a visual representation of how everyone in America should be portrayed. His use of the galloping horse helps to connect this statue to traditional ones that have been conveyed as powerful representations.
This work that Wiley is doing shows the pathway America is taking to break away from this traditionally white past, bringing into account people of color who are underrepresented within society. A perspective is formed that shows how everyone has power and nobody is different within American society as that is one of the ideals listed within their constitution. His work is also a reference to the past, canonical representations of what it means to be an American. Traditional, confederate leaders in America have often been glorified through their portrayal on horseback and Wiley is able to successfully connect his piece to the past while also breaking free and challenging traditional perspectives on art. The use of a black figure as a representation for the future of race and equality in America is one that breaks the norms but is a step in the right direction.
