This exhibition is the first comprehensive survey of the richly layered work of Simone Leigh (b. 1967, Chicago). Among the most respected artists of her generation, Leigh is representing the United States at the 59th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, on view April 23–November 27, 2022. The ICA exhibition will survey approximately twenty years of highly disciplined production in ceramic, bronze, video, and installation and will feature works from Leigh’s Venice Biennale presentation, providing American audiences the opportunity to experience this landmark installation. Over the past two decades, Leigh has created works of art that situate questions of Black femme subjectivity at the center of contemporary art discourse and explore ideas of race, beauty, and community in visual and material culture. Addressing a wide swath of historical periods, geographies, and traditions, her art references vernacular and hand-made processes from across the African diaspora, as well as forms traditionally associated with African art and architecture. Accompanied by a major monograph, this exhibition offers visitors a timely opportunity to gain a holistic understanding of the complex and profoundly moving work of this groundbreaking artist.

Simone Leigh will tour to the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, D.C. (November 2023–March 2024) and a joint presentation at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and California African American Museum (CAAM) in Los Angeles (June 2024–January 2025).