Gates’ initial foray into art was through the medium of pottery – a skill that he studied for some time in Japan. His installations are often thought-provoking and layered with meaning;
« There were a series of moments when I decided that art was important, and it was an important vehicle for me to express my interest in spaces. »
Theaster Gates
one of his most famous pieces, included in his ‘The Minor Arts’ collection, featured him taking an axe to one of his paintings – the final outcome was a glossy black canvas featuring a gaping hole in its centre, something that Gates has stated was a message regarding the lack of education funding and subsequent closing of various black and poor schools. (
Artist website)
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Gates’ initial foray into art was through the medium of pottery – a skill that he studied for some time in Japan. His installations are often thought-provoking and layered with meaning;
« There were a series of moments when I decided that art was important, and it was an important vehicle for me to express my interest in spaces. »
Theaster Gates
one of his most famous pieces, included in his ‘The Minor Arts’ collection, featured him taking an axe to one of his paintings – the final outcome was a glossy black canvas featuring a gaping hole in its centre, something that Gates has stated was a message regarding the lack of education funding and subsequent closing of various black and poor schools. (
Artist website)
Read Less
