Clintel Steed Wins artcritical Media Prize, Discusses Olympic Paintings and Dana Schutz Controversy

Clintel Steed received the artcritical media prize at the New York Studio School Alumni Association's annual exhibition, which runs through August 27 at 8 West 8 Street. The prize, also awarded at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts MFA shows, features interviews with selected artists. Guest jurors Walter Robinson, Irving Sandler, and Robert Storr chose Steed for the honor. In a conversation with David Cohen at his Sunset Park studio, Steed discussed his Olympic series depicting swimmers and Taekwondo matches, explaining he captures moments of athletic intensity using photos from his phone. He described seeking movement, rhythm, and time in painting, influenced by Mondrian's Broadway Boogie Woogie. Steed addressed the Dana Schutz controversy at the Whitney Biennial, stating it's terrible and that painters look for subject matter, while emphasizing the need for shared stories and supporting African American artists like Henry Taylor. He reflected on his artistic journey, including education at the New York Studio School, Indiana University, and working as a guard at the Met. Steed noted his work explores diverse subjects beyond politics, from Somali pirates to Beijing smog, and discussed challenges of being perceived as not 'black enough' by some audiences.