Rodney McMillian's 2003 exhibition explores absence through iconic remnants

Rodney McMillian's solo exhibition at Susanne Vielmetter Los Angeles Projects from May 31 to June 28, 2003, investigated absence as a tangible presence. The show featured works like "an audience", 2003, a five-minute DVD loop capturing reactions to Michael Jackson's 30th anniversary special, including Elizabeth Taylor in rapture. Another piece, "chair" 2003, presented a worn, lopsided chair evoking sanctity, reminiscent of Archie Bunker's armchair in the Smithsonian. McMillian's approach, compared to Van Gogh's painting of an empty chair for Paul Gauguin, emphasized veneration of voids rather than dialectical opposition. The artist highlighted human tendencies to fill voids with residues like memories and keepsakes, using wry humor to explore aura and transubstantiation. Located at 5363 Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA 90036, the exhibition avoided séance-like qualities, instead focusing on how remnants nourish fantasies and hopes.