Critical Race Theory Print 11 x 17 - Open Edition

This Critical Race Theory painting is printed on Epson Matte Paper, cut to 11 x 17 inches with a half inch border .

A 24”x 36” oil painting on canvas, Critical Race Theory depicts a non-specific white male rolling over images of Martin Luther King, Harriet Tubman, and Malcolm X with opaque white paint, in a gesture that boldly and beautifully illustrates the white-washing of black history. While many artworks from TRIPTYCH have continued to appear in the media and on social platforms since the start, when Harris posted his Critical Race Theory towards the end of November, it took a swift, fiery and continuing trip around the world; sparking conversation, support, and even infuriation across at least four platforms including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Reddit.

The painting’s viral journey began when The Other 98% - a non-profit focusing on social justice - posted the image before their 6.5 million followers; Black Lives Matter OKC picked it up and garnered thousands more hits and shares; and interest groups and the general public, from around the world, are continuing to share, follow, and passionately respond to the painting.

Moved by the viral reaction to his painting, Harris shared that he was deeply disturbed by all the news surrounding Critical Race Theory being taught in schools. “There have already been schools removing race teachings, even as the debate goes on,” he states. “I believe that removing teachings about this country’s history and race is a beast that will never be full. If you allow some to be removed, they will want to remove more & more…eventually even historical figures like Martin Luther King, Harriet Tubman, and Malcolm X might be removed altogether,” Harris adds. “The road in the background of the paintings represents the road that African Americans have had to travel just to get this far, only to have our histories – our stories – potentially erased.” The artist fears that the CRT argument bodes poorly for the future and opens the door for history to repeat itself. The painting has struck a nerve with viewers who share similar concerns, and even garnered opposing responses from MAGA platforms. Its message has been both powerful and timely, and helps demonstrate the impact and importance of art in our lives.

View more work on my website:
jonathanraymondharris.com

Prints will arrive late March 2022/early April.
Prints copyright Jonathan Harris Art.

All sales are final unless there is damage during transit.