identity theft: Creations from a social conscience


Identity Theft by chukes

Foreword by David Pagel

$70

Reach into the soul of Chukes and experience the thought-provoking writings and brilliant art works in Identity Theft. The quality and texture of the book is a beautiful work of art, just like one of Chukes’ sculptures. Once you touch this book, you will not want to put it down!

Identity Theft introduces you to a body of work that was initially a protest against the televised brutality and killings of Black people and people of color. But the world changed in the past few years, and Chukes’ art evolved with it. Chukes tells the truth by bringing history to life in his art and through his point of view.

Publisher: Sagest Press

March 2023

ISBN: 978-1-949587-04-3

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022951449

9.5”x12” hardbound and 60 color illustrations

160 pages

Shipping: Please allow 5-10 business days for orders to be fulfilled. Please contact us directly for bulk and international orders.

No returns or refunds.

Identity Theft can also be purchased at these art spaces:

Framed Gallery, Cleveland, OH

Hearne Fine Art, Little Rock, AR

Joyce Gordon Gallery, Oakland, CA

Matter Studio Gallery, Los Angeles, CA

Museum of the African Diaspora, San Francisco, CA

Rhythms of the Village, Altadena, CA

The Creative House, Inglewood, CA

Thelma Harris Art Gallery, Oakland, CA

Triton Museum of Art, Santa Clara, CA

To learn more about about Chukes’ background and artworks, please visit: chukesart.com

Foreword by David Pagel, a Professor of Art Theory and History at Claremont Graduate University, nationally acclaimed art critic and art curator, and adjunct professor at the Parrish Art Museum. Pagel writes “the hands-on, labor-intensive integrity of [Chukes’] workmanship puts great demands on himself while at the same time inspiring us viewers to be our best selves—to pay attention to details—to see beyond the obvious, to sense what is invisible, to question what we have been told, and to think for ourselves.”

What others are saying:

Wayne and Elda: “We are overloaded with emotions, Chukes. Thank you for “Identify Theft.” We feel such a privilege that we met you and admired your work so many years ago. Your book - the title, your words and the excellent photographs of your amazing artworks are superbly beautiful and powerful. We now know you on a more personal level and we are in awe. This book belongs in every household and we know your art and message will continue to live forever, impacting the world for the better, even if in small and painful steps. We wish you happiness and fantastic success!”

Kerry K: “It's such a beautiful book and an important collection of your work. The messages, stories, art, and images are powerful, poignant, and full of love and hope, too. Very well done!”

Dale F: “I am enjoying reading your book! Very inspirational for me!”

Nina K: “First a small book. Then a full sized book. So many important words from such an important artist. Your fingers talk with clay and speak to all of us. May we be smart enough to listen!!!”

Poly V: “I love every page of this book!!”

Dr. Cindy Urrutia:Identity Theft is more than a thematic body of work. It is a provocative conscious endeavor meant to elicit deep and meaningful conversations on black history, erasure, identity, and culture at a pivotal time where we are witnessing a national reckoning with our past.  Its strength is amplified by Chukes’ juxtaposition of tensions —exposing systematic oppression, racism and violence alongside beauty, tenderness, and love.  Be prepared to have your senses stimulated, your mind questioning, and your heart feeling.”

Bess W: “Fabulous book!”

Linda M: “The book IDENTITY THEFT is a beautiful masterpiece that is a ‘one of a kind’ fascinating cultural journey. The concept is brilliant. Knowing the creative passion behind each work of art is a very exciting spiritual experience. Thank You Michael Chukes for sharing your genius!”

Michael C: “My House is Again Blessed.”

Bernie S: “I made my way through your book, it’s so awesome! Other people I’ve shown it to are very impressed, as well. They ask me how I know you and I tell them and they’re blown away at how deep your well of creativity is. And thank you for the thoughtful inscription, it really means a lot to me. Best of luck with this project, I hope it opens more doors for you!”

Adam D: “Once I touched the book, I knew I had to buy it!”

Matter Studio Gallery (via Instagram): “INCREDIBLE! And Enlightening!”

Garland_Artist (via Instagram): “This book is Amazing, I've read it twice. Beautiful Cover. Yes 65 Beautiful pieces of Chukes works. It's a must have.”

About chukes

Chukes, a professional artist for more than 40 years, works in clay, oil, bronze and mixed media. He has had 30+ solo exhibitions and 60 group shows in galleries and museums throughout the United States and internationally. His work is included in many private collections, and he has done several commissions, including works for Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Identity Theft is his first published book by Sagest Press.

Chukes has been featured in numerous publications including O, The Oprah Magazine, Ebony, Essence, Valentine New York, and Ciel Paper in London. He has appeared in films and video documentaries showcasing his art. Dedicated to education in art and in African American history, he has given numerous art talks and lectures, and facilitated workshops. Chukes has a BFA in Sculpture and Ceramics from California College of Arts and Crafts and an MFA in Sculpture from Claremont Graduate University. He is now living and creating in Southern California.

For additional information regarding book signings, works of art, art exhibitions and commissions, workshops, speaking engagements and mentoring, please contact us:

chukesart@gmail.com

chukesart.com

P.O. Box 94467, Pasadena, CA 91109

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