The California African American Museum Acquires Work by Shikeith

Museum Acquisition
Shikeith's work "Sermon for a longing in blue" (2020) has joined the permanent collection at the California African American Museum in Los Angeles, CA. This installation was commissioned by CAAM for their group exhibition Enunciated Life in 2020. 
 
"Sermon for a longing in blue" features a lifesize arched wooden structure that evokes many Black church interiors that are fabricated with dark mahogony, vibrantly colored carpet and drapes, and accents of blue - a color proven in psychological studies to provide a sense of calm and serenity. In addition to a velvet-like curtain, Shikeith engages the color through a deep, alluring blue light often associated with basement parties and dimly lit clubs. Musician Corey Staggers offers a saxophone rendition of "If Only for One Night" by Luther Vandross, slowing down the original track. In marrying church and house party aesthetics with a sensual R&B song, Shikeith draws parallels between the desire of spiritual possession and physical intimacy. The lines between sacred, secular, and sexual blur as the artist considers the impermanence of satisfying both forms of desire. Soil, a material often used by the artist, is scattered within the structure in an effort to retain moisture. This produces a subtle humidity within the stucture to suggest sweat. Ultimately, Shikeith brings to mind the range of ecstatic pleasures that accompany our longing to be held, carried, and full. 
March 24, 2025