Willie Cole: Lyrical Reconstructions, new and recent works by the critically acclaimed American sculptor and printmaker, opens Thursday, March 28, with a reception and musical performance by the artist.
Cole’s creative process blends familiar consumer objects with references to the appropriation of African and African American images, resulting in sophisticated hybrids. His most recent bodies of work repurpose discarded water bottles or musical instruments, such as his 2022 commission, “Ornithology,” for the Kansas City International Airport, a work comprised of twelve larger-than-life birds made entirely from alto saxophones with an accompanying soundscape in honor of jazz legend Charlie “Yardbird” Parker.
This exhibit is guest-curated by Paul Barrett.
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Artist Talk: Sculptor and Printmaker Willie Cole
Thursday, March 28 | 3:30-4:30 PM | Ford Theater
To mark the opening of his Haley Gallery exhibition, Lyrical Reconstructions, American sculptor and printmaker Willie Cole will discuss his artwork, which blends familiar consumer objects with references to appropriated African and African American images, often incorporating steam irons and their scorch marks, ironing boards, and high-heeled shoes. His most recent works—such as Ornithology, his 2022 commission for the Kansas City International Airport—repurpose discarded water bottles or musical instruments.
