The artist uses street photography strategies to present deeply felt political stands, and the results ascend toward the realm of art. Free’s images often balance at the edge of chaos—bursting with energy and emotion, filled with moments of flux and change—much like the country itself. “Chaotic and black and beautiful” is his own description. The artist is a directly involved chronicler. Free made these photographs at Los Angeles street demonstrations that followed the police killing of George Floyd.

As a series, Analogues features a single work by contemporary artists whose image-making resonates with the themes presented in the permanent collection gallery.

Thank you to our sponsors: UCR College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, and the City of Riverside.

Image: Travon Free, Untitled, 2020. Courtesy of the artist.