2021 Create Change Fellow | 2021 Creative Action Fund Awardee
NYC | Public Art
Artist Bio
Kenseth Armstead has created provocative conceptual art for three decades. His work has been included in pivotal explorations of history, American culture, ethnicity, and institution defining moments. Selected historic exhibitions which include his work are: “Black Male: Representations of Masculinity in Contemporary Art” at the Whitney Museum of American Art; “It’s Happening! Celebrating 50 Years of Public Art in NYC Parks” in Central Park, NY, NY, Presented by NYC Parks, Art in the Parks; “Frames of Reference: Reflections on Media” at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum; “Race in Digital Space” at the MIT List Visual Arts Center; “Veni Vidi Video” at the Studio Museum in Harlem (their first video exhibition in 2003); “Open House: Working in Brooklyn” at the Brooklyn Museum; “Edited at EAI: Video Interference” at Electronic Arts Intermix (celebrating 45 years of their award winning collection); “Modern Heroics, 75 years of African American Expressionism” at the Newark Museum of Art.
What is the role of art and culture for the future of the city?
“We have to expand the role of artists and art in society. We have to become a part of people’s lives and meet them where they are. Every neighborhood needs significant public art that engages people.”
2021 Creative Action Fund | True North, feet don’t fail me now
The sculpture True North, feet don’t fail me now suggested the notion of imagining “Self Liberation Movement.” I will collaborate with choreographer Jade Charon to create “Self Liberation Movement” that can be performed along side and in collaboration with the sculpture, which is composed of 34 moveable parts. The works can be cradled, carried, concealed, stacked, rearranged and otherwise handled by dancers/ performers.
Artist Website
kensetharmstead.com