Evidence of Accumulation

I have been fortunate to be an occasional witness to the behind the scenes experience of the 2010- 2011 Studio Museum of Harlem Residency.  Simone Leigh and Paul Mpagi Sepuya have both graciously allowed me the opportunity to share a glimpse of their creative process and I have been thoroughly enriched by their generosity.  I wanted to take a few moments to congratulate each of the Residents on the culmination of this leg of their respective journeys; and thank them for contributing their unique voices to the creative conversation.  I believe this dialogue is an important element to the development of Black culture globally- their work continues to open my mind.

Simone Leigh (I am humbled by your ability to make tangible the timeless quality of the clay body.  I look at your work and see the primeval and the prescient in one glance.  Inspired by the depth of your awareness, I am encouraged to discover deeply.)

Paul Mpagi Sepuya (You remind me that art making can be about desire.  That, in fact, the wanting is not subordinate to possession but is often the nexus of action.) 

Kamau Amu Patton (I am intrigued by your all-over-the-place-ness.  You are an artist, educator and experimenter- I hope to occupy a similar space.)


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