Artist Theaster Gates reflects on his journey of discovery regarding the 19th-century potter David Drake, also known as Dave the Potter. Gates's fascination began during his undergraduate years at Iowa State University in the early 1990s, where he crafted ceramics influenced by mid-century white Americana. This led him to question the lack of representation of Black artists in the craft world, prompting a deeper exploration into Drake's legacy.
Gates's connection to Drake evolved over the years, culminating in a 2010 exhibition at the Milwaukee Art Museum that featured a book of hymns inspired by Drake's poetic inscriptions. In 2021, Gates acquired a piece by Drake, feeling ready to honor the artist's influence on his own work. Recently, he decided to gift this vessel to Drake's descendants, who have garnered attention for their efforts in ethically reclaiming Drake's art, including securing the return of two pieces from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.
To celebrate this significant transfer, Gates has centered his current exhibition at Gagosian in New York around Drake's work. He describes the show as an offering to Drake, highlighting the importance of recognizing and restoring the legacy of Black craftsmanship.
Drake's status in the art world has transformed over the last decade, as his work is now appreciated for its aesthetic and historical significance. As an enslaved man, Drake's ability to create art and literature was remarkable, allowing him to sign his work and express profound sentiments through his poetry. His most notable showcase, "Hear Me Now: The Black Potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina," debuted at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and has traveled to several major cities.
Drake's descendants, who only discovered their ancestor's legacy a decade ago, are committed to reclaiming his art. Yaba Baker, one of Drake's descendants, emphasizes their desire to bring Drake's work home while ensuring museums can continue to display his pieces. This approach aims to create a balanced and ethical ownership model.
During discussions about the ownership transfer, Gates expressed his eagerness to support the family in honoring their ancestor. He made the decision to gift the vessel almost immediately, reflecting on the profound relationship that has developed between him and Drake's descendants. Gates clarified that his gesture was not one of shame, but rather a celebration of the family's rightful claim to the pot.
In addition to the vessel, Gates is showcasing a new work, Plinth for Dave, alongside the contract for the transfer, which symbolizes a hopeful future for the legacy of Drake and the ongoing dialogue around reparations in art. Gates's exhibition serves as a testament to the enduring impact of Drake's artistry and the importance of recognizing the contributions of Black artists throughout history.
This collaboration not only honors Drake's legacy but also sets a precedent for future discussions on art ownership and restitution, suggesting a path toward a more inclusive and just art world.
