Kimberly Camp – Cross River: A Parallel Universe showcases the intricate art of dollmaking through a multidimensional lens. Spanning over forty years of Camp’s career, this exhibition highlights her unique blend of cultural intersectionality, artistry, and storytelling.
Camp’s dolls transcend conventional roles, embodying a blend of seriousness and playfulness, spirituality and everyday life. They reflect the human condition while challenging preconceived notions about race and identity. Each doll is a testament to the historical and cultural significance of dollmaking, incorporating skills such as sculpting, sewing, beading, and painting. Crafted from materials like clay, textiles, recycled fur, and acrylic paint, Camp’s dolls are unique, improvisational pieces.
Rooted in world cultures, Black American history, and Yoruba religion, Camp’s work challenges oversimplified discussions about race, presenting Blackness as a complex, distinctly American cultural identity. Her latest works, inspired by Geechee Gullah stories, use vivid patterns and historical references to redefine what Blackness means.
Curated by Judith Brodsky and Ferris Olin, the exhibition is organized into three categories:
- Blackness: Offering new perspectives on storytelling and identity, these works challenge viewers to reflect on race and cultural heritage.
- Animal Anthropomorphism: Highlighting the mythic connections between humans and the animal kingdom, emphasizing shared behaviors and traits.
- Fantasy Universe: Imagining a vibrant utopia where Camp’s dolls reside in endless creativity, color, and perpetual sunshine.
For Camp, dollmaking is a joyful act of play. Each doll is a spontaneous creation, guided by intuition and filled with laughter and discovery, resulting in pieces that are both amusing and meaningful.
Explore More from Kimberly Camp:
Get inspired by Kimberly Camp’s creative journey!
Watch her recent panel discussion with artist Lonnie Graham, and moderator Rhinold Ponder, who talked about the issues they face–and the complexity and challenges of–working as Black artists.
Attend her Doll Talk & Demo on Friday, November 15, as she joins us to talk about an abbreviated history of dolls and the diversity of skills used to create a doll and provide a brief demo.