Willie Cole: Lyrical Reconstructions, new and recent works by the critically acclaimed American sculptor and printmaker, opens Thursday, March 28, with a reception and musical performance by the artist.

Cole’s creative process blends familiar consumer objects with references to the appropriation of African and African American images, resulting in sophisticated hybrids. His most recent bodies of work repurpose discarded water bottles or musical instruments, such as his 2022 commission, “Ornithology,” for the Kansas City International Airport, a work comprised of twelve larger-than-life birds made entirely from alto saxophones with an accompanying soundscape in honor of jazz legend Charlie “Yardbird” Parker.

Cole will perform two songs at the exhibit’s opening reception which is free and open to the public on Thursday, March 28, from 5:00 – 9:00 PM. All work is available for purchase. This exhibit is guest-curated by Paul Barrett.

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