Major Kerry James Marshall Exhibition Opens at London’s Royal Academy

The Royal Academy of Arts in London is set to host "Kerry James Marshall: The Histories," an extensive retrospective showcasing over 70 pieces by the acclaimed artist. Running from September 20 to January 18, 2026, the exhibition coincides with Marshall's 70th birthday and features a newly commissioned series of paintings. The display is organized into 11 thematic sections, illustrating the artist's evolution and addressing themes such as the representation of Black life, historical erasure, and social justice. Key works include the enigmatic "A Portrait of the Artist as a Shadow of His Former Self" (1980), the powerful "The Academy" (2012), and "Knowledge and Wonder" (1995), a significant piece loaned for the first time from Chicago Public Library. Marshall’s art critically examines the Western art canon, highlighting Black experiences across pivotal historical moments like the Middle Passage, Civil Rights, and Black Power movements, while also celebrating everyday scenes of Black life in spaces like barbershops and parks. The exhibition will be open until January 18, 2026. Visitors can purchase tickets and find more information on the Royal Academy’s official website.