“Exhibiting Forgiveness” is a powerful exploration of the legacy of slavery and its enduring impact on Black communities. The exhibition features a series of large-scale paintings that depict scenes of Black people being enslaved, but with a twist. Kaphar’s signature style involves “re-imagining” the historical narratives of slavery, challenging the traditional depictions of Black people as passive victims. Instead, he presents them as active participants in their own stories, reclaiming their agency and power.

The Exhibiting Forgiveness paintings are not merely a visual spectacle; they are a powerful tool for exploring complex social and psychological issues. They are a reflection of the artist’s own experiences and the collective experiences of his community. The paintings are deeply personal, yet they resonate with a broader audience due to their universal themes of forgiveness, family, and community.

The paintings are not merely decorative elements; they are integral to the story, serving as visual cues, narrative devices, and thematic anchors. The paintings in “Exhibiting Forgiveness” are a powerful tool for understanding the characters, their motivations, and the overall narrative. They act as a visual language, conveying complex emotions, relationships, and historical context.