McMillian developed the wall work Icarus’ Ass (Ikarus’ Arsch) from a used blanket: The interior was burned and the striking void was left similar to the outline of a map. “Interventions” of this kind can be understood in connection with the missing Black historical narrative. With the title, the artist refers to the myth of Icarus, who presumptuously flew too high to the sun and crashed.

Latex, acrylic on scorched blanket, on canvas
160 × 230 cm

Marta Collection, donation from the Gaby and Wilhelm Schürmann Collection, Herzogenrath 2024

© Rodney McMillian
Photo: Wilhelm Schürmann