'30 Americans' Exhibit Sneak Peek

Jean-Michel Basquiat, Bird on Money (1981)

This painting is one of three works from the late, great artist that are featured in the exhibit.

Iona Rozeal Brown, Sacrifice #2: It Has to Last (2007)

The Washington, D.C., native is inspired by Japanese ganguro culture, hip-hop and fashion.

Nick Cave, Soundsuit (2008)

Cave, a performance artist, dancer and fabric sculptor, is best known for the elaborate garments he makes from found materials.

Robert Colescott, Pygmalion (1987)

Known for his use of satire, Colescott dealt with racial stereotypes in his paintings.

Barkley L. Hendricks, Noir (1978)

Hendrick's paintings, like this portrait from the 1970s, "epitomize black urban style."

Rashid Johnson, The New Negro Escapist Social and Athletic Club (Thurgood) (2008)

In addition to photography, Johnson creates music, video and sculptures.

Xaviera Simmons, One Day and Back Then (Standing) (2007)

The multimedia artist poses in her own photographs.

Hank Willis Thomas, Basketball and Chain (2003)

The photographer juxtaposes images of slavery and depictions of athletes.

Mickalene Thomas, Baby I Am Ready Now (2007)

Thomas uses a number of different materials, including rhinestones, enamel and wood, to create her colorful pieces.

Kehinde Wiley, Sleep (2008)

In his paintings, Wiley drops contemporary urban black men into classical settings.