Rico Gatson

Gatson began his Icon series in 2007. Using colored pencil and photographs on paper, he depicts African American cultural icons with rays of color emanating from their center. These rays suggest the presence of power, and encourage celebration of pivotal individuals such as James Brown, Muhammad Ali, and Nina Simone. Gatson continues this theme with abolitionist and political activist Harriet Tubman, haloed in a magenta sphere with bright yellow lines radiating from her center. Knowing Tubman’s history with the Underground Railroad, the image takes on a mystical quality. Harriet seems to appear out of a purple mist, portrayed with what could be interpreted as the bright lights from a train, and the glowing moon behind her, guiding the way for the passengers on their journey. As a significant woman of history, Harriet claims the viewers’ attention, demanding we remember her story and history.

New York-based, Rico Gatson graduated from Bethel University in Arden Hills MN, and Yale School of Art. He has exhibited his work nationally and internationally, including solo shows at The Studio Museum in Harlem, The Brooklyn Museum, Samson Projects in Boston, MA and the Serge Ziegler Galerie in Zurich, Switzerland.

Gatson is a multi-media artist working in sculpture, video, and painting. His work often deals with themes of racial identity, history, and spirituality, communicated using bright colors, geometric formalism, and pop culture figures.

Website: https://ricogatson.com
Instagram: @rico_gatson