Xaviera Simmons: Figure Eleven

Xaviera Simmons: Figure Eleven, a major solo exhibition bringing together recent works in photography, painting, video and sculpture

The Contemporary Dayton is proud to present Xaviera Simmons: Figure Eleven, a major solo exhibition bringing together recent works in photography, painting, video, and the world premiere of a new body of bronze sculptures by one of the most bold and visionary artists of our time.

Simmons’ practice is deeply rooted in art history, both through deliberate assertion and continuous engagement, drawing on references that span from antiquity and the American landscape to contemporary media. Her work unfolds through a cinematic sensibility, where narrative, movement, and stillness intersect. This is evident in her photographic series such as American Book Covers and Sundown, in her monumental text paintings, and now in this new body of bronze sculptures.

Performance, choreography, and the sensual are integral to Simmons’ artistic language. In this recent sculptural work, these elements coalesce into forms that feel both classical and contemporary. As with much of her practice, Figure Eleven situates art history within an ongoing continuum, like a film that resists final resolution.

The sculptures recall the Venus of Willendorf and Venus de Milo while simultaneously reflecting the multiplicity of contemporary bodies and motifs. Their power lies in their capacity to collapse and reconcile distinct historical and cultural narratives. The figures embody a poised stillness that resonates with the language of movement and performance. Figure Eleven, both the exhibition’s title and the newest figurative sculpture, appears as if drawn from a film still, a moment suspended between gesture and permanence.

OPENING NIGHT / NOV 14

Member & Sponsor Preview: 5-6 pm

Public Reception: 6-8 pm

Remarks: 6:30 pm

Links & Tags

The Contemporary Dayton

Xaviera Simmons: Figure Eleven is taking place at The Contemporary Dayton, which is located at 25 W 4th Street in Dayton. The Contemporary Dayton - The Contemporary Dayton is a non-profit gallery and artist resource that provides art for the community and a community for artists. (Formerly Dayton Visual Arts Center / DVAC).