Existing comment:
WESLEY CLARK
The Feeling
Plywood, lumber, steel, screws, nails, bolts, and spray paint
24-1/2 x 27 x 7 in.
Courtesy of the artist
ARTIST STATEMENT
The Feeling is part of a small series of journal-like works borne of thoughts and discussions around the COVID-19 pandemic, death, the continued injustices faced by Black Americans, and the country's leadership throughout 2020. This work was ruggedly built as a quick but sturdily reinforced work surface used in the studio for eight years before its disassembly. Pieces of rusted steel are attached, furthering the industrial history of the piece while flanking a cross made from protruding rusted screws, bolts, nails, and other metal fasteners.
The Feeling describes the slow, inward burning sensation that came in waves after hearing and witnessing multiple videos of injustice (Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Dion Johnson, and more) and innocent verdicts for murderous acts. The cross in the center, akin to the American Red Cross logo, references the need for and giving of aid -- yet finding neither from governing bodies. This cross takes its cues from the Congolese power figure nkisi nkondi, letting our solace be found in the spiritual forces avenging our wronged and fallen. |