Redefining Stereotypes Through Art

“My artwork is a reflection of the people I see,” says Angie (Angela) Redmond. “I create oil on canvas portraits and figurative paintings that focus on redefining stereotypes placed on black bodies within society. These stereotypes include black people being associated with a struggle, crime, or some sort of aggression.

“By painting candid images (from cell phone photos I have taken) of friends, family, and community members going about their daily lives and being themselves, I aim to highlight the concept of just being; without identities given by others.”

"Sweet Treats Make Ls a Little Better," 2023, oil on canvas, 36 x 24 in. "You cannot win every game, but at least there are treats!" ~ Angie Redmond
“Sweet Treats Make Loss a Little Better,” 2023, oil on canvas, 36 x 24 in. “You cannot win every game, but at least there are treats!” ~ Angie Redmond

“I want to provide a space for representation and invite the viewers to relate the imagery and concepts to a personal and intimate level of their own,” she continues. “My art is not limited to the voice of one culture, but is speaking to all within our community, our society, our human race; while we respect our differences and honor our similarities.”

"Whenever We Get Together," 2024, oil on canvas, 35 x 35 in. "A sweet moment captured between generations." ~ Angie Redmond
“Whenever We Get Together,” 2024, oil on canvas, 35 x 35 in. “A sweet moment captured between generations.” ~ Angie Redmond
figurative paintings - Angie Redmond artist
“It Matters What You Do,” 2024, oil on canvas, 36 x 26 in. “A movement started with one brushstroke. This young woman helped put in the work to make a statement.” ~ Angie Redmond

Angie Redmond (1987 Chicago) has a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Painting from Northern Illinois University, a Master of Science degree in Digital Art from Knowledge Systems Institute, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Studio Art from Albion College in Michigan. Her portfolio is focused on oil on canvas portraits and figures.

figurative paintings - Angie Redmond artist
“I Can Do That,” 2023, oil on canvas, 24 x 30 in. “The sweet imagination of a young child.” ~ Angie Redmond

Angie’s artwork has been shown nationally in various museums, galleries, and universities (including Governor’s State University, University of Illinois at Chicago, Northern Illinois University, and Freeport Art Museum) ranging from Chicago, New York City, Miami, and Michigan. She had her first solo exhibition at Albion College in Michigan in 2018.

"Is It Anger or Jealousy?" 2019, oil on canvas, 64 x 46 in. "A self-portrait mimicking the blackface imagery. Taking back control of our identity, I ask - does presence make you red with anger or green with jealousy?" ~ Angie Redmond
“Is It Anger or Jealousy?” 2019, oil on canvas, 64 x 46 in. “A self-portrait mimicking the blackface imagery. Taking back control of our identity, I ask – does presence make you red with anger or green with jealousy?” ~ Angie Redmond

She was a finalist in the first Rush Philanthropies Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series in 2010 and exhibited at N’Namdi Center for Contemporary Art for the semi-finals. She also exhibited artwork in the 2015 and 2019 – 2023 Museum of Science and Industry’s Black Creativity (winning Best in Show of the 2020 installment) and was voted winner of the Ultimate Painting Chicago Live Painting Competition in 2015.

figurative paintings - Angie Redmond artist
“Sitting and Contemplating,” 2021, oil on canvas, 48 x 36 in. “This image highlights the effect of worrying about what others may think or say based on their perception of you and who you represent.” ~ Angie Redmond

She is also the recipient of several art scholarships from Northern Illinois University; including the Arends Memorial Scholarship, the Olson Memorial Scholarship, the Olson Memorial Painting Scholarship, and the Helen Merritt Art Scholarship.

"I Got a Job To Do," 2020, oil on canvas, 24 x 24 in. "Jason Hargrove, a hardworking bus driver with a contagious laugh who passed due to Covid and the carelessness of others." ~ Angie Redmond
“I Got a Job To Do,” 2020, oil on canvas, 24 x 24 in. “Jason Hargrove, a hardworking bus driver with a contagious laugh who passed due to Covid and the carelessness of others.” ~ Angie Redmond

She is currently an art instructor at Northern Illinois University and Harper College in Palatine, IL.

Artist Angie Redmond
Artist Angie Redmond

Browse more articles on figurative paintings and artists here at RealismToday.com.


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