Noah Davis’s Retrospective at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reviewed

The New Yorker

by Zachary Fine

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Noah Davis’sRetrospective at the Philadelphia Museum of Art showcases the life and work of Los Angeles-based artist Noah Davis, who passed away in 2015 at the age of 32. Known for his dynamic artistic style and contributions to the Black arts movement, Davis left behind over 400 paintings, drawings, sculptures, and collages. His exhibition, curated by Wells Fray-Smith and Eleanor Nairne, highlights his exploration of light, dark, and texture, drawing comparisons to artists like Whistler and Eakins. The show also features a mini-installation from the Underground Museum, an institution Davis founded with his wife, Karon, to bring high-quality art to underserved communities in Los Angeles. The retrospective opens with Davis’s early works, revealing his influences and experimentation. While pieces like “40 Acres and a Unicorn” (2007) reflect his engagement with Reconstruction history, others, such as “Bad Boy for Life” (2007), showcase his ability to blend moral ambiguity with absurdity. His use of blurred figures on crisp backgrounds creates a sense of otherworldliness, making his work both unsettling and thought-provoking. Davis’s evolution as an artist is evident in his transition from thick brushwork reminiscent of Van Gogh to bold, Minimalist gestures inspired by Malevich. The exhibition also underscores Davis’s role as a cultural trailblazer. By founding the Underground Museum with Karon, he aimed to challenge the exclusivity of traditional art spaces and bring art to local communities. This mission aligns with earlier Black artists like Charles White and Betye Saar, who similarly defied mainstream art world norms by exhibiting in non-traditional venues. Davis’s work not only reflects his personal journey but also serves as a testament to the power of community-driven art initiatives. Noah Davis

Verticals

culturenews

Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/23/2026