KERRY JAMES MARSHALL The Gershwin's Porgy and Bess, 2019

To commemorate the Metropolitan Opera’s production of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, acclaimed artist Kerry James Marshall created a striking poster featuring Porgy and Bess in a tender, powerful embrace, symbolizing the enduring love and complexity at the opera’s core. Known for his depictions of Black identity and life, Marshall infused the poster with rich symbolism, bold lines, and a timeless color palette, reflecting the opera’s cultural significance.

Prominently displayed on the Met’s façade during performances, the poster became a visual centerpiece, embodying themes of resilience, love, and the African American experience. Beyond a promotional piece, it honors the legacy of George and Ira Gershwin’s work while remaining relevant in conversations about race, representation, and art, making it a powerful tribute both inside and outside the opera house.