The Art Institute of Chicago has inaugurated a newly commissioned installation, Rise Up Ye Mighty Race!, made by American artist Kara Walker, who is known for her use of simple black cut-paper silhouettes to explore provocative themes. With her shadowy figures, reminiscent of popular 19th-century cartoon characters, Walker tells stories that recall such atrocities as slavery or violence against woman. Also on view are five of Walker’s large graphite drawings and 40 smaller mix-media works.

Gallery 293, Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, until 11 August 2013.