Cherise Smith

Professor Cherise Smith is renowned for her significant contributions to the field of American art, particularly in the context of identity, politics, race, and gender. As an Associate Professor and Chair of the African and African Diaspora Studies Department at the University of Texas at Austin, she has made a profound impact on the academic community through her innovative research and teaching. Smith's scholarly work primarily focuses on American art post-1945, with a keen interest in how identity is constructed and represented in performance art. Her acclaimed publication, "Enacting Others," delves into the performance art of women artists who challenge and redefine traditional notions of identity. This work has been instrumental in broadening the discourse around gender and race in contemporary art. Throughout her illustrious career, Professor Smith has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards. Notably, she was awarded a Getty Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship, which supported her groundbreaking research. Additionally, she has held a Research Fellowship at Harvard University, further cementing her status as a leading scholar in her field. In addition to her academic achievements, Smith has extensive experience in the curatorial sector. She has worked in the curatorial departments of esteemed institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the De Young Museum. Her curatorial work has been characterized by a commitment to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives in the art world. Professor Smith's contributions extend beyond academia and into the broader cultural landscape. Her work not only enriches the understanding of American art but also challenges and inspires new ways of thinking about identity and representation. Her dedication to exploring the intersections of race, gender, and politics in art continues to influence and shape the field.