Providence Artists at The Whitney Biennial: Quiet as It’s Kept

The Whitney Biennial, a survey of American art begun in 1932, has long been a platform for a wide range of artistic representation. The exhibition for 2022, titled Quiet As It’s Kept, is made up of a diverse array of mediums, covering themes of abstraction, narrative, and the challenge of defining what is “American.” Two of the featured artists are currently based in Providence: Tony Cokes and Michael E. Smith. Cokes’ work consists of video installations which recycle the words of notable figures from Judith Butler to John Lewis, juxtaposed against brightly colored slideshows. Smith is a sculptor, transforming common objects to create social commentary. The exhibition will remain open on partial viewing through October 16th.