Fan art sent to Antwaun Sargent (image courtesy Antwaun Sargent, aka Sir Sargent)

Sir Sargent, as he’s known on social media, represents a new wave of art writers and critics focused on Black contemporary art and its evolving role in an international African diasporic consciousness. He was born in Chicago as Antwaun Sargent, and has called New York home since 2011.

When he first arrived in New York City, he was a kindergarten teacher, but he soon discovered his interest in telling the stories of Black artists and sharing his insights into a contemporary art world often perceived as opaque and inaccessible. He’s since co-curated his first exhibition, spoken at countless events, and is now working on a book.

I invited our news editor, Jasmine Weber, to join me in this conversation to learn about Sargent’s thoughts on a scene that is getting more attention than ever.

A special thanks to Brooklyn-based artist Amani Fela for providing the music for this episode. You can check out his music on Soundcloud or follow him on Instagram.

This, and more in the current episode of our weekly Art Movements podcast.

Subscribe to Hyperallergic’s podcast on iTunes, RadioPublic, RSS, and anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

Hrag Vartanian is editor-in-chief and co-founder of Hyperallergic.

3 replies on “Antwaun Sargent on Black Contemporary Art”

  1. I love this interview and what Antwaun Sargent is doing, changing the system, build relationships between artists and critics, and shining light on African American artists and other really talented artist that are over looked due to greed. One of my favorite upcoming African American artist is David White, aka Mr. Star City, on the new ATO Gallery website.

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