Alicia Keys and Swizz Beats have been collecting art their entire marriage and are now sharing it with the world. The couple considers themselves more patrons of their art than owners, so they call themselves “the Deans.” The “Giants” collection has been exhibited at the Brooklyn Museum, the High Museum of Art, is now at the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia). The Mia website says, “the exhibition reflects the Deans’ passion for supporting established and emerging artists while fostering important dialogues about art, culture, and identity,” which includes expressions of Black joy, Black beauty, and racism. Kathryn Schwyzer, docent (guide) at the Mia, says the collection is called “Giants” because Alicia Keys and Swizz Beats are “giants” of the music industry and because most of the pieces in the collection are enormous, but it’s also believed to reference the “giant” conversation it inspires.
The collection includes paintings, sculptures, prints, collages, and more, and the materials used vary from charcoal drawings to realistic portraits to mixed media. The pieces primarily include Black people as their subjects and depict various experiences. One painting illustrates a casual day at the pool; another showcases the feeling of having to hide one’s “true” self; a collage highlights the judgment Black children face while a photographer encapsulates the streets of New York City.
Art moves people. It speaks to human emotions, and “Giants” is no different. This collection stirs up conversation and pushes boundaries. Seeing the art via the Internet is interesting but can never replace seeing it in person. While the exhibit hosts nearly 100 works, seeing it doesn’t take long. More time is needed to truly enjoy and appreciate the art, but you could be in and out within an hour. Admission is free for those 17 and under and $20 for those 18 and older, so it’s the perfect way to have an affordable outing. “Giants” will be at the Mia until July 13, 2025, meaning there are countless opportunities to visit and have your own “giant” conversations.
