In the late 80s and early 90s, Robert Longo created an impressive and extensive portfolio of black American flags, through which he explored themes relating to power, patriotism, and identity. These darkened, monochromatic flags appeared limp, folded, and mangled, both as works on paper and bronze sculptures. Robert Longo’s “Black Flags” operate on the viewer like black holes. At first glance, these objects are sullen, indecipherable, and opaque. On closer inspection, however, they reveal themselves as references to flags that seem to have been freeze-framed as they flap in the wind; they appear soft as if indeed made of canvas, and the stars, stripes, and stitching are all discernible. Indeed, each work consists of a bronze cast, made by the lost wax method of a genuine American flag.
These works build on Jasper Johns' flag paintings by merging subject and material, blurring the boundary between the symbol (the flag) and the artwork itself. Longo’s flags, both sculptural and on paper, evoke a sense of implosion and fragmentation, challenging the viewer to interpret culturally loaded symbols stripped of their usual context.
Longo’s Black Flags serve as a dark commentary on America’s legacy, encapsulating his broader exploration of authority, violence, and existential struggle. Each flag is a compact, dark opera about completely fungible heroes, who are off-stage throughout the action.
“ An artist should know art history. Shock value only lasts so long. „