Singer Alicia Keys and her husband, producer Swizz Beatz (Kasseem Dean), are set to unveil their extensive art collection at the Brooklyn Museum in February. Titled Giants, this highly anticipated exhibition will mark the first time the public will have the opportunity to view the Dean Collection, which features a remarkable selection of established and emerging artists from the Black diaspora.
Positioned on the museum’s first floor, the exhibition’s name pays homage to the strong connections between the Deans and the artists they support, as highlighted in a statement by the Brooklyn Museum. Not only will the show explore these relationships and legacies, but it will also spark meaningful conversations inspired by the thought-provoking artworks on display, addressing societal issues and celebrating the richness of Black culture.
Although specific details about the collection remain undisclosed, Giants will showcase the works of 40 prominent Black artists, including renowned figures like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Meleko Mokgosi, Jamel Shabazz, Derrick Adams, and Arthur Jafa. Recognized for their unwavering support of Black creatives, Swiss Beatz and Alicia Keys have been actively advocating for the representation and empowerment of Black artists through their collecting efforts, advocacy, and partnerships, as noted by Brooklyn Museum director Anne Pasternak.
In a 2018 interview with Cultured magazine, Dean explained that he began collecting art by Black artists due to the lack of representation and support within the art world. Since then, their collection has grown to encompass numerous works by legendary artists.
Giants is scheduled to open on February 10 and will be on display until July 10, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the remarkable artistic contributions of the Black diaspora.
