Big Chief Demond Melancon
Colossal

"Big Chief Demond Melancon leads Black masking traditions in his native New Orleans, spending countless hours stitching small glass beads and feathers into elaborate suits to be worn during Mardi Gras. The labor-intensive garments are just one part of Melancon’s practice. He transfers the intricate beadwork to smaller portraits honoring cultural icons, political figures, and those who’ve made a profound impact personally and collectively.

 

The ongoing series includes people like former First Lady Michelle Obama, who appears wearing an elegant gold and green headdress with a regal expression. Nigerian musician and activist Fela Kuti appears, too, with a crown and painted face, his charismatic and determined personality shining through the beadwork. Intent on reimagining the portrayals of and narratives historically surrounding Black people, Melancon creates portraits that share stories of celebration and renown, depicting his subjects with joy and adoration."