Artist Radcliffe Bailey died in his home Wednesday at the age of 55.
Bailey passed away following a battle with brain cancer, according to reports.
Famed Artist Radcliffe Bailey Dies https://t.co/55awbQCW4w
— Charlie R. Braxton (@CharlieBraxton) November 15, 2023
"Few artists achieve the level of recognition so early in their career as the Atlanta-based artist Radcliffe Bailey. The artist-in-residence’s fine-tuned sensibilities to tapestry and color are often noted as the quintessential ear markings of African American art forms," Atlanta World Daily reported.
"Radcliffe Bailey, who is often compared to other acclaimed African American artists, including the world-renowned painter Romare Bearden, has been creating breathtaking and thought-provoking pieces since he hit the art scene in the early ’90s," it added.
Radcliffe Bailey was known for his multidisciplinary approach, incorporating the African diaspora in his paintings and sculptures.
City Council issues statement on the passing of artist Radcliffe Bailey https://t.co/dVscCBoWOR pic.twitter.com/My3FCm0I0P
— Atlanta City Council (@atlcouncil) November 15, 2023
"It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of Radcliffe Bailey. He was a visionary in the arts industry and leaves behind a legacy that has profoundly enriched our city’s creative landscape," the Atlanta City Council said in a statement.
"Although this is a loss for Atlanta and the arts community, let us take this time to reflect on his contributions and the impact he had on the world. His talent, innovation, and passion for sculpting will be remembered by all who had the privilege of experiencing his] work. We express our condolences and heartfelt thoughts with family, friends, and the entire arts community during this difficult time," it continued.
Mayor @andreforAtlanta issued a statement on the passing of renowned Atlanta artist Radcliffe Bailey: https://t.co/AM9Tlieg0I pic.twitter.com/qSrnAnXwZ6
— City of Atlanta, GA (@CityofAtlanta) November 15, 2023
Mayor Andre Dickens also issued a statement following the loss of the well-known artist in Atlanta.
“Our hearts are heavy with the loss of Atlanta’s own Radcliffe Bailey. For decades, Radcliffe has shaped Atlanta’s cultural landscape through his own unique, creative genius. While often bringing the intersectionality of ancestry, race and art to the forefront of a discussion, his talent was both personal and accessible to our community," he wrote.
"I had the privilege of visiting with him Friday to express Atlanta’s gratitude for all his contributions to our city. Our Administration has been working with his family and team on a fitting way to honor his incredible life and legacy, and we look forward to sharing those details in the near future.
“My thoughts are with his family and all who knew and loved him," he noted.
Radcliffe's impact leaves a legacy in his home city of Atlanta and beyond as leaders and friends mourn his passing and remember his work.
