Glenn Ligon, Blue (for JB) #11, 2025, carbon ink and acrylic on torinoko paper, Gift of the Collectors Committee, 2026.56.1

Upcoming Exhibition

Glenn Ligon: Subtext

Details

  • Dates

    -

  • Locations

    East Building

    East Building Concourse, Galleries

  • Ticketing Information

    Admission is always free and passes are not required

One of today’s most influential artists proposes new ways of seeing art and histories through language.

For 40 years, Glenn Ligon has invited us to explore the power and process of language. In paintings, prints, drawings, and neon sculptures, Ligon uses text to reference moments in culture, literature, and history.  In doing so, he encourages us to consider the changing nature of language and its role in representation.

This major exhibition includes iconic works in our collection, key loans, and exciting new works seen in Washington for the first time. Plus, Ligon has curated a special section of nearly 20 works—a show-within-the-show—to honor other artists with whom his practice is in dialogue. 

Organization
Organized by the National Gallery of Art, Washington

Curated by Molly Donovan, curator of contemporary art and acting head of modern and contemporary art, in consultation with the artist 

 

Other venues  

Walker Art Center, Minneapolis, October 30, 2027–April 16, 2028

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, May 13–September 10, 2028

 

Sponsors

Major support for the exhibition has been provided by the Sam Gilliam Foundation.  

The exhibition is also made possible through the generosity of the Robert and Mercedes Eichholz Foundation.  

Additional support for the exhibition has been provided by the Henry Luce Foundation and the Elizabeth Firestone Graham Foundation. 

Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation. 

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