David Hammons on Belonging, Refusal, and Art in Rome
In June 1993, David Hammons collaborated with Jannis Kounellis on works in the gardens of the American Academy in Rome. The installations were presented under tents at Villa Aurelia. Critic Robert Storr interviewed Hammons about his time in Italy, his sense of non-belonging to any place or community, his refusal to participate in the Whitney Biennial, and his views on American museums. Hammons, known as a spokesperson for the African American community, creates work that reflects cultural specificity and social advocacy without being limited to that dimension.
Key facts
- David Hammons collaborated with Jannis Kounellis in June 1993.
- The works were created in the gardens of the American Academy in Rome.
- Installations were presented under tents at Villa Aurelia.
- Robert Storr interviewed Hammons for the article.
- Hammons discussed his refusal to participate in the Whitney Biennial.
- Hammons spoke about his sense of non-belonging to any place or community.
- Hammons is considered a spokesperson for the African American community.
- His work balances cultural specificity and social advocacy.
Entities
Artists
- David Hammons
- Jannis Kounellis
Institutions
- American Academy in Rome
- Whitney Museum of American Art
Locations
- Rome
- Italy
- Villa Aurelia
Sources
- artpress —