There tends to be a lack of representation in the art world. So, I'm putting together a list of some visual artists of color that I believe should be household names. Not only are they personally some of my favorite artists, but they really have a way of commenting on social issues using little or no words.

1. Kehinde Wiley

Feeling that art, in history and especially in museums, is only really one shade, he decided to paint black faces in white spaces. See below:

2. Carrie Mae Weems

This phenomenal woman works with audio, video, images, text, and fabric to create social commentary. Many may know her from her iconic "Kitchen Table" Series, but she proves that she is multi-faceted with the remainder of her work as seen below:

Caption: Looking into the mirror, the black woman asked,"Mirror, Mirror on the wall, who's the finest of them all?" The mirror says, "Snow White, you black bitch, and don't you forget it!!!"

3. Ana Mendieta

Ana Mendieta is a Cuban-American performance artist, sculptor, video artist and painter who made some very loud, controversial statements challenging societal opinions dealing with Cuban culture, gender roles, and women's issues. Despite her tragic murder in 1985, her work still cries the same message, if not more now. See below (TRIGGER WARNING):

4. Kara Walker

Kara Walker is a contemporary American artist who is mostly known for her haunting cut-outs depicting racism, slavery and post-slavery, and sexuality. Her work is highly controversial and jarring to most, but there's a necessary method to her madness. See some of her work below:

I apologize for the lack of representation of other cultures. As I learn more and expand my artistic vocabulary, so will I update this article.