Fusing social and political commentary with cultural theory, Tony Cokes creates films, or video essays, that incorporate colour theory, music, sound and found texts quoted by various voices. The quotes from Malcolm X to David Bowie are shown against solid colourful backgrounds, accompanied by sound. A former DJ, Cokes is interested in resonances in pop culture and media that echo the past through the present lens. Addressing the representation of Blackness in film, television and advertising, the artist explores the social condition that maintains prejudice against black subjects. Tracing historical continuities through the critique of racism, capitalism and gentrification, Cokes’ fast-paced audiovisual works are visceral statements on lived experience. ...
