Contemporary Conversations (#artconvoAIE) invites iconic American artists to Ottawa for discussions on topics that transcend national borders, inspire critical thinking, and connect people across cultures. After Gates, the series will bring artist Anne Chu (September 29th) to the Gallery for the final 2016 Contemporary Conversation.  Each artist’s lecture is accompanied by an exhibition of his or her work in the National Gallery, and in May, Theaster Gates’ Billy Sings Amazing Grace will be installed for the first time.

Each of the featured artists of 2016 is well-known for his or her unique ability to creatively address some of today’s most complex social issues. Sharing a commitment to cultural diplomacy, all three artists have participated in numerous Art in Embassies exchange programs, and their work has been installed in U.S. embassies, consulates, and ambassadors’ residences around the world.

Chicago-based artist Theaster Gates has expanded his scope of artistic practice to include issues of land use, space policy, and race. These topics that he explores under the larger umbrella of Black Space are the heart of a series of ongoing public conversations Gates has initiated.  Join us as we explore some of these ideas in relationship to the field of artistic practice.

“As a fellow Chicagoan, I have been an enthusiastic follower and fan of Theaster’s work for years. Through his many creative approaches and his artistic practice, he is transforming urban communities in Chicago’s South Side, bringing new life and hope. He’s a painter, a sculptor, a performance artist, a singer, a chef, an academic, an incredible speaker, a potter, and truly a civic treasure of my hometown. I honestly can’t wait for Ottawa to hear his stories,” said Vicki Heyman, wife of the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Bruce Heyman.

“Theaster Gates seeks to engage and even transform communities with the arts. He is widely considered to be one of the most forward thinking artists on the international contemporary scene.  His video, Billy Sings Amazing Grace, is a recent acquisition of the NGC that we are pleased to be able to present to the public. Like everyone else who has followed his extraordinary career, I am very much looking forward to this evening in his company,” said National Gallery of Canada Director and CEO Marc Mayer.

Admission to the May 12 lecture is free. Seats in the Auditorium will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. There will also be a live broadcast of the event in the adjacent Lecture Hall.