Isaka Shamsud-Din offers an exhibition of powerfully painted canvases that critique the complex history that makes up the African American experience. His large-scale paintings imbue vivid color and bold energy bringing his characters to life. He collages past and present elements into allegorical vignettes that reflect culture and history. His suggestive work shows both the grace and anguish of the people he depicts.
A Portland painter and teacher, Isaka Shamsud-Din received his training at PNCA, formerly the Museum Art School and Portland State University, where he teaches art and works in community outreach. He has received grants from the Metropolitan and Oregon Arts Commissions, as well as a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship. His many public commissions include murals for the Portland Justice Center, the Albina Neighborhood, the Children’s Museum and Portland State University.