Nov 10, 2025–Mar 28, 2026
MoMA
Wifredo Lam’s artistic journey was deeply intertwined with his commitment to racial and social justice, emphasizing that his work transcended mere aesthetics. This comprehensive U.S. retrospective spans over sixty years of Lam’s prolific career, showcasing more than 150 works—including paintings, prints, illustrated books, ceramics, and works on paper. Born in Cuba and shaped by his experiences in Spain and Paris, Lam was profoundly influenced by Afro-Caribbean culture and spirituality upon his return to the Caribbean after nearly two decades abroad.
His innovative style merges human, plant, and animal forms, blurring boundaries between figuration and abstraction. This fusion reflects the fluidity among the physical, spiritual, and political realms, creating a unique visual language that challenges colonial narratives. Throughout his career, Lam also experimented with ceramics and printmaking and collaborated with renowned poets to strengthen the cultural resonance of his work. By positioning painting as an act of decolonization, Lam redefined modern art and continues to inspire contemporary discourse on culture and identity. This exhibition invites viewers to engage with a visionary artist whose work offers new perspectives on Black culture and modernism.
