
Jiréh and Gabriel
2018
Jordan Casteel's Jiréh and Gabriel (2018) is a monumental oil on canvas depicting two figures holding hands against a vibrant crimson backdrop, rendered with the artist's signature gestural brushwork and commanding sense of presence. Casteel is celebrated for her large scale figurative portraits that center Black subjects with dignity, intimacy, and psychological depth, making this work a significant example of her practice. The bold color contrast between the rich red background and the cool blue tones of the figures' clothing creates a visually striking composition that commands attention in any collection. This painting exemplifies why Casteel has become one of the most sought after figurative painters of her generation, with works held in major museum collections worldwide.
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
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Artists in conversation

Lynette Yiadom-Boakye
British · b. 1977

Yiadom-Boakye creates large scale figurative oil paintings centering Black subjects with bold color grounds and gestural brushwork, sharing Casteel's commitment to dignity, psychological intimacy, and commanding painterly presence.

Henry Taylor
American · b. 1958

Taylor paints expressive figurative portraits of Black individuals and communities with loose gestural brushwork and saturated backgrounds, reflecting the same emphasis on intimate human connection, identity, and social narrative found in this specific work.

Toyin Ojih Odutola
Nigerian-American · b. 1985

Ojih Odutola creates intimate figurative works depicting Black subjects in close relational scenes, often featuring two figures whose psychological bond and tactile presence mirror the hand holding intimacy and emotional depth of Casteel's composition.
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