THERESA CHROMATI
b. 1992, United StatesTheresa Chromati is a Guyanese American multimedia artist born in Baltimore, Maryland. Chromati explores black women as idealized figures that embrace empowering identifications of full figured women adorned with whimsical protective armor such as face masks, pussy lips, and protruding chest keloids referencing diversity of self-identity, ownership, body manipulation, and as an act of self preservation. The artist has begun to incorporate “electrical outlets” as objects to portray black women as powerful sources of energy, yet very vulnerable and over exposed to intrusion, energy draining, or “plugging in”.
Rotating between digital and analogue media, Chromati’s environments take place in an alternate universe often accompanied by layered audio melodic soundscapes. Graphic elements reminiscent of checkerboard tiles are placed against grand arches that create royal backdrops and mysterious doorways which suggest an escape for women. Chromati emphasizes subtle gestures of intimacy within familial, romantic, and congenial relationships. As well as looking into a spectrum of experiences that exist for women within public and private spaces, exceeding the limitations traditionally imposed on them.
Chromati often pulls references from her mother’s, aunties, and neighbors that she experienced during her adolescent years in Baltimore City by focusing on the various nuances of communication within partnerships and black women as community. Her work has most recently been displayed at the Untitled Art Fair, Miami and featured on Art News, i-D, Cool Hunting, and in the Spring issue 2018 of Juxtapoz Magazine. She received her BFA from Pratt Institute and is currently working in her studio located in Bedstuy, Brooklyn.
Text courtesy New Image Art
Explore and Follow Artists Shaping Contemporary Art
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services