Through Un-American Gods, Williams examines the impact of European colonization on African development and its repercussions on Black people in America. This project envisions a world where Black communities independently thrive, free from exploitation and cultural suppression. Williams uses diverse materials and techniques—acrylics, resin and mixed media—to create a futuristic archaeological exhibit, portraying a timeline of unbounded Black advancement. By blending African and American Black cultures, the exhibit invites viewers to reflect on potential achievements and the future of self-determined Black societies.  

“My work celebrates Black people in general, but much of the work is specific to Black women. I like to depict Black women in a very reverential way, one that celebrates and elevates them,” says Williams. “In my current work, you’ll see goddesses, queens, CEOs and things of that nature. A lot of my work addresses different topics, disparities or discrimination but I never want to show Black people suffering.”

Moving the Margins’ Artist-in-Residence program has seen unprecedented success. This groundbreaking program, now in its third year, continues to serve as an incubator for artists taking on contemporary themes of justice, leveraging art as a launchpad for dialogue. Each residency allows the artist to collaborate with local change agents to create accessible, immersive art installations and public programming that spark conversation and catalyze our community toward action.

Through a partnership with The Jessie, Williams’ work is the latest in a series of artist residency projects curated by Moving the Margins and displayed in The Corner Gallery at 40 E. Adams St. in Jacksonville, Fla. Un-American Gods will run Sept. 7, 2024 through Feb. 12, 2025. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment on weekends and after hours. Additional programming facilitated by Moving the Margins occurs monthly at The Corner Gallery and The Jessie. 

About Moving the Margins

Moving the Margins’ Artist-in-Residence is a cultural program fiscally sponsored by 904WARD. It represents their mission to foster an environment that builds bridges by providing dialogue and conversations for the Jacksonville community to combat racism. 

About the Artist

Marcus Jamal Williams, a native of Jacksonville, Fla., is a dynamic visual artist who embarked on his artistic journey in 2011 after earning a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the University of Florida. Specializing in acrylics, Williams employs an experimental process, integrating traditional techniques with diverse mediums to achieve nuanced and intentional outcomes. His signature style features strategic abstraction, dynamic interplay between foreground and background, and contrasting paint application methods, resulting in layered and immersive compositions. 

From his early years, Williams noticed a significant lack of representation for Black creators and subjects in the art world, which profoundly influenced his artistic mission. Focusing on race and gender representation, Williams depicts Black subjects with reverence, aiming to instigate a transformative shift in self-perception within his community. His dedication to elevating Black individuals, particularly Black women, is evident in the powerful narratives woven into his work. Williams stands as a passionate advocate for representation and empowerment, using his art to celebrate the strength and beauty of Black people.