Michael Ray Charles

Michael Ray Charles

Joseph H. Hazen Rome Prize
September 10, 2018–July 26, 2019
Profession
Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen Distinguished Professor of Painting, School of Art, University of Houston
Project title
Images of the blacks and crocodiles
Project description

Largely known for his studies of black people in the ancient world, Dr. Frank Snowden, asserted that large numbers of slaves in the empire were white; while, large numbers of the blacks were thought to be warriors, statesmen, and mercenaries not slaves. While a noteworthy perspective that is not necessarily represented in the art produced about blacks by others. Among many other themes he assessed, the images of the black and crocodiles appeared to be a popular motif referenced in wall murals, sculptures, tile mosaics, and other forms. Essential to my intellectual and creative interest in the region are the Roman mosaics, erotica frescos, and wall murals. I plan to visit the House of the Neptune’s Roman mosaic, that depict Pygmies and Cranes, and crocodiles located in the city of Italica, Spain, and the erotic tile mosaics and murals from the caldarium entrance in the House of Menander. I will, produce work informed by these works of art and architecture in Italy.