Chasing Hammons

To those who were lucky enough to catch the “Blues for Smoke” exhibit at the Whitney Museum this spring were greeted with a John Coltrane-inspired installation by Illinois-born artist, David Hammons (b. 1943).Created in 1989, Chasing the Blue Train covered the entrance landing of the exhibit making it the largest installation on display though its dimensions vary upon each exhibit. The modest piece included five-six pianos with boom boxes attached, each playing a different Coltrane composition: including “The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” and “Body and Soul”. As the petite blue locomotive made its way along the tracks, it disappears and reappears behind piano lids into a coal-lined tunnel. Hammons often incorporated his African-American heritage into his pieces. He emphasized on Black empowerment, racial injustice, and struggle. Chasing was layered in historic symbolism which could be interpreted as narrations of the Industrial Revolution represented by the coal tunnel. This represented the start of the Harlem Renaissance around the time the “A” line was built on 125^th street. Hammons commented on many areas regarding history and the progression of American culture.  Primarily a mixed media artist, Hammons created both installations and paintings. His style could be described as “grungy” since many appeared “drape-y” by using several different mediums together like plastic hangings or worn-out blankets. The New York City-based artist was most active during the 1970s and ‘80s generating works abundant with sarcastic commentaries on racial issues, stereotypes, and using provocative materials such as chicken parts, bottles of cheap wine and even animal dung. He was even quoted saying he “can’t stand art, actually. I’ve never liked art, ever”: sarcasm intended?   Hammons contributed in, he had work displayed in the MoMA, the L&M gallery (Los Angeles) and the Mnuchin Gallery in New York City; most recently displayed at the MoMA PS1’s “Now Dig This!” and the Whitney’s “Blues for Smoke”. He’s quick to come and go. Keep an eye out; everyone loves the unconventional and brooding.Guest Writer Source: Yilla ChenEdited by: Tina ChenPhoto Source: LA Times