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Kara Walker's 'Afro Kismet' Tapestry Commission Explores Slavery's Legacy in Chelsea Exhibition

exhibition · 2026-04-23

Kara Walker, a well-known American artist, has created an impactful work in the UK that delves into the legacy of slavery. Her piece, called 'Afro Kismet,' is currently on display in Chelsea until August 17, having been curated by Monika Fabijianska this fall. This artwork is part of a larger series of thirteen tapestries commissioned from various contemporary artists, with Walker’s contribution standing out for its immersive visuals. She skillfully employs a rich visual language to convey complex themes. Earlier, her drawings were shown at Brent Sikkema gallery until July 25, alongside Lisa Yuskavage's exhibition at Marianne Boesky gallery, which wrapped up on June 27. Walker's works have also appeared at the Whitney Museum and Sikkema Jenkins gallery.

Key facts

  • Kara Walker created a major UK commission addressing slavery's history and legacy.
  • The work 'Afro Kismet' is on view in Chelsea through August 17.
  • Monika Fabijianska curated the exhibition earlier this fall.
  • The piece is one of thirteen tapestries commissioned from contemporary artists.
  • Walker's drawings were shown at Brent Sikkema through July 25.
  • Lisa Yuskavage exhibited at Marianne Boesky through June 27 on the same block.
  • A 2003 exhibition at New York Studio School featured Walker's cutouts and collages.
  • Walker's work has been displayed at the Whitney Museum and Sikkema Jenkins.

Entities

Artists

  • Kara Walker
  • Monika Fabijianska
  • Lisa Yuskavage
  • Mark Bradford
  • Karen Yasinsky
  • Isaac Julien
  • Kate Shepherd
  • Antony Gormley

Institutions

  • Whitney Museum
  • Sikkema Jenkins
  • Mireille Mosler
  • Metro Pictures
  • Galerie Lelong
  • Sean Kelly
  • New York Studio School
  • Brent Sikkema
  • Marianne Boesky

Locations

  • Chelsea
  • New York
  • United States
  • UK
  • West 22nd Street
  • 8 West 8th Street
  • 535 W 22nd Street
  • 530 W 22nd Street

Sources