Black Jockeys Praxinoscope
Film and Sculpture
Mute
Engaging the history of animation in its earliest form: Black Praxinoscope references the experiments of photographer Eadweard Muybridge’ motion picture studies that revealed how a racehorse’s legs were all suspended in the air for a brief moment during its gallop.
THE PROCESS
Corresponding with the animated sportrait, They Were the First to Ride, this piece narrates the history of the eleven African American jockeys who won the Kentucky Derby from 1875 to 1902.
Having completed the sportrait film, I wanted to create a standalone sculpture with the horse figures I had remaining. Using a copper pot as the main body of the piece, I repurposed an old ball bearing sculpture and worked with a local fabricator to cut and frame the glass. The result is a spinning praxinoscope that engages the viewer on a multifaceted tactile level.
Here are some links to read more about the incredible history of black jockeys in America.
https://www.history.com/news/the-kentucky-derbys-forgotten-black-jockeys
That’s a wrap:
Behind the scenes
Black Jockeys Praxinoscope Production Gallery
Exhibition Shows
Museum of Modern Art, New York (film only)
Quotidian Gallery, Los Angeles
LTDLA Gallery, Los Angeles