The Fourth of July has come and gone, but the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary continues. This milestone presents an opportunity for reflection, as artists, critics, curators, and museum professionals release significant works that examine the complexities of American history. These art books challenge the dominant narratives often presented by the political right, revealing truths that have been obscured.
Declaration House: A New Perspective on Independence
One notable title is Declaration House, edited by Anna Arabindan-Kesson, Paul M. Farber, and Yolanda Wisher. This book focuses on Thomas Jefferson's drafting of the Declaration of Independence, highlighting the role of Robert Hemmings, an enslaved valet, who was present during its creation. Through essays and conversations with descendants of Monticello, the book reframes American history around the experiences of enslaved Black people, offering a vision for the future that acknowledges the past.
MONUMENTS: Rethinking American Sculpture
Another essential read is MONUMENTS, edited by Hannah Burstein and Hamza Walker. This catalog accompanies an exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, delving into how the U.S. has narrated its identity through monumental sculptures. It connects the legacy of slavery to contemporary political struggles, showcasing essays from notable figures that explore how art reflects and contests our history.
Passports: Personal History Through Photography
In Passports, photographer Keisha Scarville transforms her father’s passport photo into a rich tapestry of personal history. By incorporating elements like glitter and beads, Scarville reclaims the bureaucratic nature of passport imagery, creating a hauntingly beautiful narrative that intertwines her father’s immigrant experience with broader themes of identity.
Mount Rushmore: A Complex Legacy
Matthew Davis’s A Biography of a Mountain takes readers on a journey to the Black Hills of South Dakota, where he examines the multifaceted meanings of Mount Rushmore. Through interviews with local Native people and settlers, Davis presents a humane perspective that prioritizes storytelling over traditional historical accuracy, revealing the deep connections between land and memory.
