In the realm of contemporary art, inspiration often emerges from profound encounters, leading to the creation of works that resonate deeply with personal and collective histories. Such was the case for visual artist Ligel Lambert, whose recent conversation with renowned artist Tschabalala Self sparked the creation of a powerful portrait of the late Robert Reed, a celebrated visual artist and former Yale professor. This portrait now holds a central place in Ligel’s ongoing Black Male Artist Professor series, a tribute to the Black educators who have shaped the course of art and culture.
A Meeting of Minds: Ligel and Tschabalala Self
On May 21, 2024, Ligel Lambert attended the American Federation of Arts Spring Luncheon, an event that brought together some of the most influential voices in the art world. It was here that Ligel met Tschabalala Self, an artist whose work explores themes of identity, race, and gender through a distinctive and powerful visual language. The two artists quickly connected over their shared commitment to representing Black experiences and contributions in their work.
During their conversation, Ligel was struck by Self’s dedication to creating art that honors her subjects with authenticity and depth. This encounter left a lasting impression on Ligel, inspiring him to reflect on the figures who had shaped his own artistic journey. One name stood out among the rest: Robert Reed, a towering figure in Ligel’s life and a mentor whose influence had guided his path as both an artist and an educator.
Honoring a Mentor: The Creation of Robert Reed’s Portrait
Robert Reed was a revered artist and professor at Yale University, known for his abstract works and his profound impact on generations of students. For Ligel, Reed was more than a teacher — he was a beacon of wisdom, creativity, and resilience. Inspired by his conversation with Tschabalala Self, Ligel decided to create a portrait of Robert Reed as part of his Black Male Artist Professor series, a project dedicated to honoring Black educators who have left an indelible mark on the art world.
The process of creating this portrait was deeply personal for Ligel. He sought to capture not only Reed’s likeness but also the essence of his teaching and the legacy he left behind. The portrait, still in progress, is a blend of abstraction and realism, reflecting both Reed’s artistic style and the profound impact he had on those who knew him.
(Here is a glimpse of Ligel’s creative process as he brings Robert Reed’s portrait to life)[
The Significance of the Black Male Artist Professor Series
Ligel’s Black Male Artist Professor series is more than just a collection of portraits — it is a celebration of the contributions of Black male educators who have shaped the cultural landscape through their art and mentorship. By creating this series, Ligel aims to highlight the often-overlooked influence of these figures and inspire a new generation of artists to explore their own identities and histories.
The series has already garnered attention for its powerful subject matter and Ligel’s ability to convey the complexities of his subjects through his art. With each portrait, Ligel not only honors the individual but also contributes to a broader conversation about the importance of representation, mentorship, and legacy in the arts.
Continuing the Legacy
As Ligel continues to work on the Black Male Artist Professor series, he remains deeply influenced by the lessons he learned from Robert Reed and the inspiration he drew from his conversation with Tschabalala Self. This series is a testament to the enduring impact of Black educators and the importance of honoring those who have paved the way for future generations.
To stay updated on Ligel’s work and the progress of the Black Male Artist Professor series, you can follow him on his social media platforms:
Instagram
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YouTube
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Ligel’s portrait of Robert Reed is not just a work of art — it is a tribute to a mentor, a reflection of an artist’s journey, and a celebration of the power of education and legacy!