Lorraine O’Grady (1934–2024), a one-of-a-kind conceptual artist, challenged racism, sexism, and cultural hierarchies through fearless performances, photography, and writing. After early careers as an economist and rock critic, she turned to art in her 40s, creating provocative works like Mlle Bourgeoise Noire. A true risk-taker, O’Grady redefined the boundaries of art and identity, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary culture.
Lorraine O’Grady (1934–2024), an indefatigable conceptual artist whose work critiqued definitions of identity, died in New York on Friday aged 90. O’Grady confronted the structures of race, gender, and class while celebrating self-definition, dialogue, and the humanity at art’s core.
Lorraine O’Grady (1934–2024) was a groundbreaking conceptual and performance artist whose work confronted race, gender, and power with incisive wit and emotion. From Mlle Bourgeoise Noire to Art Is . . ., her art and writing redefined Black female subjectivity and inspired generations to see themselves as part of art’s narrative.