History has a way of making itself heard—sometimes it whispers, other times it roars. This fall, one of the most iconic uprisings in American history speaks loud and clear through a stunning new piece of art at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC). Artist Christopher Myers massive tapestry, titled The Grim Work of Death, takes center stage on the museum’s Concourse Level, offering visitors a visual and emotional journey through the legendary Nat Turner’s slave rebellion.

Revolution Woven into Fabric

Imagine stepping into a room where 32 feet of bold, vibrant fabric brings the past back to life—not just as historical fact but as a woven tale of prophesy, resistance, and mythology. Myers’ tapestry does just that, portraying Nat Turner’s rebellion in 1831 with a mix of realism and mythic storytelling. This isn’t just a portrayal of a bloody uprising; it’s an artistic exploration of Turner’s convictions, his divine visions, and the fiery insurrection he led.

On August 21, 1831, Turner, an enslaved man who believed he was chosen by God to deliver his people from bondage, led a revolt in Southampton County, Virginia. His rebellion resulted in the deaths of over 50 people—both enslaved and free—before it was violently quashed by local militia forces. However, Turner’s insurrection was more than just a fleeting event; it sparked a ripple effect, inspiring similar revolts and igniting a fire in the fight for Black liberation. And this very moment of resistance is what Myers captures so vividly in his tapestry.

A Tapestry of Vision and Myth

Myers, a Brooklyn-based artist known for his bold, intricate style, doesn’t shy away from the gritty reality of Turner’s rebellion. But he also adds layers of symbolism and myth to the tale, blurring the lines between history and prophetic storytelling. The title, The Grim Work of Death, is lifted from Turner’s own words, describing the intense and brutal uprising he led.

With fabric as his medium, Myers creates a tableau where farming tools, axes, and other deadly instruments become part of the narrative, referencing the makeshift weapons Turner and his fellow rebels used. These physical elements are intertwined with mythological symbols and religious motifs—hinting at Turner’s divine visions, which were central to his rebellion.

Step closer and you’ll notice striking details: a pale face crying tears of blood, a sewn-shut mouth of a Black man, and epic battle scenes between Black and white figures, evoking the fierce fight for freedom that took place. These images don’t just recount history; they challenge viewers to consider the deep emotional and spiritual stakes of Turner’s rebellion.

An Artistic Reckoning

But this isn’t just a static piece of art hanging on a wall. Kevin Young, the Andrew W. Mellon Director of NMAAHC, describes the tapestry as having a “riveting power to create a visual journey into the complex life and legacy of Nat Turner.” It’s a visual reckoning—a demand that we grapple with the brutality of slavery, the horrors of rebellion, and the courage of those who fought back.

For Myers, the tapestry isn’t just about Turner’s individual act of resistance; it’s about the human condition and how we all, like Turner, find ourselves caught in the "whirlwind of history." This connection between past and present, myth and reality, is what makes The Grim Work of Death so striking. It forces us to confront the painful yet empowering legacies of slavery and rebellion that still echo today.

A Must-See at the Smithsonian

As part of NMAAHC’s vast collection of culturally significant objects, this tapestry adds a new dimension to the museum’s mission of reimagining African American history. It sits alongside exhibitions like Reckoning, which explores the ongoing struggle for racial justice and freedom in America.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just curious about the incredible stories of those who dared to fight for their freedom, **Christopher Myers’ “The Grim Work of Death”** is a must-see. It doesn’t just recount a historical event; it brings that event into the present, demanding that we remember, reflect, and continue the fight for justice.

So, the next time you find yourself at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, make sure to stop by this monumental tapestry. Stand before its vibrant colors, bold textures, and haunting images. And let yourself be drawn into the story of Nat Turner—a man whose rebellion continues to inspire and challenge us all.

Where to Experience It

The tapestry is currently on view at the Concourse Level of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Washington D.C. For more information, visit the museum’s online Searchable Museum and discover the layers of history, art, and legacy that Christopher Myers has so masterfully brought together.

For more info, visit nmaahc.si.edu, follow @NMAAHC on X, Facebook and Instagram or call Smithsonian information at (202) 633-1000.