Soup CoolersMasud Ashley Olufani · 2019

  • Creation date2019
  • MuseumHammonds House Museum
This work investigates a phrase commonly associated with the black vernacular tradition, particularly in the Southern United States. Referring to the relative size of the lips of people from the African diaspora, the term derives from the sardonic, mythological notion that black lips are so large that they could cool a pot of soup with one blow. In this context, what was once seen as a grotesque aspect of black physicality has been reinterpreted through humor--a powerful mechanism for survival. The soup can links the work to Andy Warhol’s pop art creations. In this iteration, it references the objectification, appropriation and commodification of the black body by the multi-billion-dollar beauty care industry. The shifting perception of an “ideal” standard of beauty now includes aspects of the black body devoid of the social consequences of blackness.

Masud Ashley Olufani (1980 –)

Masud Ashley Olufani is a multidisciplinary Atlanta-based artist exploring themes of trauma & identity through sculpture, performance, and film. Exhibiting internationally, including Dakar Biennale.

Hammonds House Museum (Atlanta, United States of America)

Discover Hammonds House Museum in Atlanta, GA – a premier destination showcasing African American art within a beautifully preserved Victorian home. Explore diverse exhibitions, cultural heritage & inspiring works by artists of the African Diaspora.

About this artwork

  • Title: Soup Coolers
  • Artist: Masud Ashley Olufani
  • Year: 2019
  • Format: Panoramic
  • Copyright status: Under copyright
  • Where to see it: Hammonds House Museum
  • Color palette: Earthy
  • Perceived brightness: shadow

Questions & Answers

How intense are the colors in "Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani?

"Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani shows a monochromatic color intensity.

Who created "Soup Coolers"?

The artist behind "Soup Coolers" is Masud Ashley Olufani. The work is catalogued under Masud Ashley Olufani's name.

How strong is the contrast in "Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani?

The contrast level of "Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani is bold.

Does the copyright of "Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani allow reproductions?

"Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani, held at the Hammonds House Museum, is still protected by copyright. This status determines whether reproductions of the image may be made.

At what age did Masud Ashley Olufani make "Soup Coolers"?

Masud Ashley Olufani was 39 years old when creating "Soup Coolers" in 2019. The age is computed from the artist's birth year, 1980.

What is the creation date of "Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani?

The creation of "Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani is dated 2019.

What color palette is used in "Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani?

"Soup Coolers" by Masud Ashley Olufani uses an earthy color palette. The palette summarizes the work's overall color character.

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