#David Hammons

[neshamama]

david hammons, "bliz-aard ball sale," 1983, performance in cooper square, new york, photographed by dawoud bey

[milksockets]

'untitled' by david hammons, 1989 in neohoodoo: art for a forgotten faith - franklin sirmans (2008)

[iiiiddddaaa]

David Hamons, Body Prints 1968-1979

[zegalba]

David Hammons: Cold Shoulder (1990)

[topcat77]

David Hammons - American artist b. 1943

[thunderstruck9]

David Hammons (American, 1943), Untitled, 1976. Body print with oil pastel, embossing, 25 1/2 × 19 1/2 in.

[noosphe-re]

David Hammons, African-American Flag, 1990 "David Hammons (American, b. 1943)} re-creates the familiar pattern of the American flag using the colors of the flag for the Universal Negro Improvement Association (U.N.I.A), an early twentieth-century black nationalist organization The U.N.I.A. flag featured broad bands of red, black, and green as symbolic colors intended to unite all people of African origin under one banner. Hammons's new version conflates the two flags, perhaps implying that a black nation resides within the United States or, conversely, that such a distinction is impossible. Hammons created African-American Flag for Black USA, a 1990 exhibition at the Museum Overholland in Amsterdam, which was the first exhibition of African American art to be organized by a European museum." (MCA)

[trapangeles]

Kendrick Lamar’s "Squabble Up": A Visual Masterpiece of Cultural References and Homage

Kendrick Lamar has once again cemented his place as a visionary artist with the release of his "Squabble Up" music video. Packed with cultural nods, historical tributes, and impactful cameos, the video is a layered exploration of Black culture, West Coast pride, and hip-hop legacy. Here’s a deep dive into the elements that make this visual a masterpiece.

1. Ice-T's Power Album Cover

Kendrick pays homage to Ice-T’s 1988 album Power, one of the foundational pieces of West Coast rap history. By referencing this album, Kendrick honors a pioneer who paved the way for artists to merge raw storytelling with mainstream appeal.

2. David Hammons’ “African-American Flag”

The reinterpretation of the U.S. flag by David Hammons, featuring red, black, and green colors, symbolizes Black identity and resilience. Kendrick’s inclusion of this flag is a nod to empowerment, heritage, and the ongoing fight for equality.

3. Soul Train Scramble Boards

Kendrick incorporates the scramble boards made famous by Soul Train, the iconic Black dance and music show. This nostalgic reference celebrates Black excellence and the cultural impact of the show, which gave countless artists a platform.

4. Trunk Boiz “Scraper Bike” Video

The video nods to the 2007 “Scraper Bike” video by Trunk Boiz, a Bay Area anthem celebrating creativity and individuality. This homage reflects regional pride and highlights how grassroots movements have shaped urban culture.

5. Menace II Society Reference

The tricycle scene is a direct reference to the 1993 urban classic Menace II Society. This moment reminds viewers of the gritty realities of inner-city life and ties Kendrick’s storytelling to a legacy of authentic cinema.

6. Isaac Hayes’ Black Moses Album Cover

Kendrick recreates the cover of Isaac Hayes’ 1971 album Black Moses. This nod pays tribute to a soul music legend whose work represented strength, vulnerability, and empowerment.

7. The Roots’ "The Next Movement" Video

Visual parallels to The Roots’ 1999 “The Next Movement” video highlight Kendrick’s connection to progressive hip-hop storytelling, showing his appreciation for fellow innovators.

8. Nate Dogg Tribute

Kendrick subtly honors West Coast legend Nate Dogg, whose smooth hooks defined an era of hip-hop. This tribute ties the video to the golden age of West Coast rap and acknowledges Nate Dogg’s lasting influence on the culture.

9. “Jesus Saves Gangsters Too” Outreach Ministry

This reference to the grassroots ministry founded in 2000 emphasizes themes of redemption and transformation. By including this, Kendrick underscores his message that no one is beyond saving.

10. Statue of a Black Panther

A striking statue of a Black Panther symbolizes resistance, unity, and empowerment. This imagery connects Kendrick’s work to the legacy of the Black Panther Party and its role in advocating for justice.

11. Ese’s Partying Scene

Kendrick includes a scene of Ese’s partying, highlighting the intersection of Black and Chicano cultures in L.A. This moment is a celebration of diversity and community, integral to the West Coast lifestyle.

12. Big and Curvy Women Dancing

The inclusion of big and curvy women dancing challenges societal beauty standards and celebrates body positivity. Kendrick has long been an advocate for authenticity, and this scene is a bold statement of inclusivity and empowerment.

13. Dog Trainer Bitten by a Pitbull

The scene of a pitbull biting its handler carries layered symbolism. It could represent the struggle between control and rebellion or speak to the unpredictability and survival instincts that define life in the streets.

14. Westside Traffic’s Hoover Stomp

Schoolboy Q’s artist Westside Traffic performs the Hoover Stomp, bringing raw, authentic energy to the video. This moment is a vibrant nod to L.A. street culture and its unique contributions to hip-hop.

15. Storm DeBarge’s Stunning Moves

Choreographer and dancer Storm DeBarge brings dynamic energy to the video with her captivating performance, further showcasing Kendrick’s commitment to highlighting Black artistry.

16. Black Panther Movie Connection

Kendrick subtly nods to his work on the Black Panther movie soundtrack. This acknowledgment reinforces his role as a cultural leader bridging the worlds of art, music, and activism.

17. Cameos from L.A. Stars

The video features appearances by Taz Arnold, G Perico, RJMrLA, and Cuzzos, bringing together a community of creatives who embody the vibrant spirit of L.A.’s music scene.

A Celebration of Culture and Legacy

From its rich cultural references to powerful imagery and standout cameos, Kendrick Lamar’s "Squabble Up" is a layered visual masterpiece. It’s not just a music video—it’s a celebration of resilience, identity, and the enduring legacy of hip-hop.

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[bconker]

David Hammons

Selling snow balls at Times Square, NY. 1983

[armchairarchivist]

David Hammons, Rock Head

[sacredwhores]

David Hammons - Close Your Eyes and See Black (1969)

[gregdotorg]

David Hammons signed this stick and gave it to Belgian curator/museum director Jan Hoet. Hoet's family is selling it, on the claim that it represents both Hammons' quasi-mystical African American tradition of making art from found objects, but also that it embodies Hammons' and Hoet's deep, longlasting friendship. It is one of at least three artworks Hoet got from Hammons, who he included in documenta in 1992.

image: David Hammons, Head Warmer, 1998, a 1-meter long stick, titled and signed, selling at Christie's in Dec. 2024, tho this image is from an unsuccessful sale at Phillips in 2023.

[update: it did not sell.]

[chainsawpunk]

David Hammons, Untitled (Body Print), 1970, grease and dry pigment on paperboard, 26 x 19 in (66 x 48.3 cm)

[abridurif]

David Hammons, Fly in a Sugar Bowl, Installation, 1990

[ars-solitudine]

David Hammons

[guyanesevisa]

David Hammons, “Venice Beach Hair Garden” (1977)