Mark Bradford and Kara Walker's exhibition at Sikkema Jenkins & Co. showcases paper-based art and social commentary.

From September 10 to October 17, 2009, Sikkema Jenkins & Co. in New York City hosted a joint exhibition of works by Mark Bradford and Kara Walker at 530 W. 22nd Street. Both artists, prominent figures in the African American art scene, employed paper as a central medium, albeit through distinct styles—Walker is celebrated for her figurative silhouettes, while Bradford is recognized for his abstract collages. Walker showcased cutout figures on painted panels, paper sculptures, and two silhouette puppet videos, diverging from her usual large installations. Bradford’s pieces featured urban materials like billboards and magazines from South Central Los Angeles, layered and distressed. Their works were displayed together to highlight shared themes of cultural and social commentary. Walker, born in 1969, investigates historical racial conflicts, whereas Bradford, born in 1961, reflects on modern urban life. Both artists have garnered acclaim, having held solo exhibitions at the Whitney Museum of American Art in 2007 and receiving MacArthur Foundation 'genius' awards—Walker in 1997 and Bradford in 2009. The pairing underscored Bradford's emerging prominence alongside Walker. The gallery's contact number was 212 929 2262.