We Called Her Mom

Malene Djenaba Barnett, MFA 2022, Ceramics

My work examines the relationship between handmade techniques in modern art and design. My travels around the world, coupled with a deep appreciation for the details and forms found in West African art, have offered me a unique insight. Research--in mediums, processes, and techniques--is where I examine my ideas, and new concepts arise that are explored and then applied to future works. In this process, I channel the paths of renowned artists such as Lois Mailou Jones, Elizabeth Catlett, Barkley Hendricks, and others who came before me. Their dedication to both craft and purpose while keeping cultural traditions alive and creating legacies encourages me to continue to enhance my artistic heritage with meaning.

 
 
Legacy Wall, Installation View, Color laser printouts 10’ x 20’, Photo credit: Neighboring States.

Legacy Wall, Installation View, Color laser printouts 10’ x 20’, Photo credit: Neighboring States.

“Made for Mom”, woven inkjet paper, 64” x 90”, Photo credit: Neighboring States.

“Made for Mom”, woven inkjet paper, 64” x 90”, Photo credit: Neighboring States.

“Mom’s Smile, Granny’s Eyes”, woven inkjet paper, 60” x 90”, Photo credit: Neighboring States.

“Mom’s Smile, Granny’s Eyes”, woven inkjet paper, 60” x 90”, Photo credit: Neighboring States.

“View of “Made for Mom” and “What’s Left Behind”, Installation View, woven inkjet paper and clay, Photo credit: Neighboring States.

“View of “Made for Mom” and “What’s Left Behind”, Installation View, woven inkjet paper and clay, Photo credit: Neighboring States.

“What’s Left Behind”, Installation View, Inkjet printouts, clay, 18” x 24” (21 pieces), Photo credit: Neighboring States.

“What’s Left Behind”, Installation View, Inkjet printouts, clay, 18” x 24” (21 pieces), Photo credit: Neighboring States.

Photo credit: Neighboring States.

Photo credit: Neighboring States.

Photo credit: Neighboring States.

Photo credit: Neighboring States.

Photo credit: Neighboring States.

Photo credit: Neighboring States.

 

Malene Djenaba Barnett

Website: www.malenebarnett.com
Instagram: @malene.barnett

Malene Barnett is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist, ceramicist, and textile designer, based in Brooklyn, New York. She is also the founder of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, a curated collective of independent black artists, makers, and designers. Malene is interested in finding ways to define the black narrative while raising awareness about racial inequality in America. Her artistic practice is inseparable from her work as an activist. Through her sculptural ceramic tiles and vessels, mixed media paintings and handwoven rugs, she shares her African heritage with a global audience. She has been featured in publications like New York Magazine and Elle Decor, and has been invited to speak by MSNBC and TEDx. Malene’s clients include Marriott, Viacom, Saks, WeWork, Avalon Communities, and the MetLife Building.