Artist Talk | Reginald Sylvester II

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In this conversation with Kemper Museum's Erin Dziedzic, Reginald Sylvester II discusses the inspiration, process, and spiritual journey behind his exhibition _Green Gate._

*About the Exhibition:*
_Green Gate_ brings together paintings, drawing, and sculpture by New York-based artist Reginald Sylvester II (born North Carolina, 1987, lives and works in Brooklyn, NY). Taking inspiration from abstract expressionism, contemporary design, and theological traditions, Sylvester's working process follows a trajectory from muse to mark making. Taking meditative walks around New York City with an open mindset led Sylvester to a green gate from which ideas about passage, Black bodies, radiated green light, and spiritual resonance are explored in his recent abstract work. _Offering IX_ (2022), a recent acquisition to Kemper Museum’s Permanent Collection will be included in this exhibition.

This exhibition is organized by Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art and curated by Erin Dziedzic, director of curatorial affairs.

[AbdullahAlHuneiny]

Great discussion, , keep on with all the blessings..

[darrylj]

I was at this talk. Great artist. Can't wait to see whats next

[jodestella]

Very insightful and introspective work. Thankful for bringing artist, Sylvester, on your show.

[Osdol]

Thank you for providing this talk. It is inspiring to hear from this thoughtful artist directly. A good discussion; led well by the host.

The MOST exciting and intriguing part for me: (34:44 to the end) Courtney and artist. This final portion of ‘Audience Q&A’ is a great way to close this talk!

I love what this woman (in audience) brings to the discussion. She seems to have a beautiful sensibility and insight into the process of an (abstract) artist and art/life commentary in general. I feel she opens something unique within this artist for us.

“Courtney and Reggie”: I appreciate your grounded sensitivity, thoughtful depth, and sense of humility (ex. Abstract art(ist) as searcher, style vs. sensibility, connections and questions of faith within your creative process, completeness and wholeness, completion of work, etc.).

Courtney, are you an ‘undercover audience member’ and actually on the museum’s curatorial staff? 😊

Thanks all. Good luck with the exhibit and moving the work forward in a world that needs it. I will look for images of the work & exhibit. Best.

[Mario.International]

The hardest job in this contemporary art museum is done by the cleaning lady.
Her dilemma - of not knowing what is art and what goes in the garbage bin - is heartbreaking.

[justinleemiller]

Art looks like a token for the rich to trade among themselves to get even more rich 👍🏽