Sam Gilliam In Dialogue

Conceptual, geometric, and lyrical, the draped and suspended works of Sam Gilliam (American, b. 1933) defy conventional definitions of sculpture and painting. Gilliam’s pioneering use of pigment on un-stretched material dismantles the prevalent narrative that black artists excel solely in figural representation.

Sam Gilliam In Dialogue marks the debut of WCMA’s recent acquisition of Situation VI-Pisces 4 (1972), a signature drape work of gigantic scale. With no specific instructions for installation, the work can be suspended in multiple ways, generating innovative, site-specific dialogues with the people and works of art surrounding it. In the spirit of Gilliam’s experimental practice, this exhibition will completely re-install the gallery space three times to reflect different interpretations:

Feb 15 - Apr 22, 2018 - Race + Representation

Apr 26 - June 6, 2018 - Form

Jun 7 - Sep 3, 2018 - The Topography of Color

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website.