The renowned JESSICA SILERMAN Gallery showcased the inaugural Asian solo exhibition of Miami's Haitian artist, Woody De Othello, at Frieze Seoul in 2023. It was a debut for the gallery at Frieze Seoul, where Othello's ceramics, bronze, wood sculptures, and oil paintings were highlighted against a distinctive green backdrop. 

▲ Woody De Othello, One thing we have in common is loss, 2023, ceramic, glaze, 47 x 27.9 x 6.3 cm, Courtesy of JESSICA SILVERMAN.The "Mineral Memory" exhibition revolved around themes of home, personal history, and the passage of time. The bronze artwork, “The healers gathered around” (2023), presented pairs of legs in a ceremonial position, symbolizing the essence of communal unity. Adjacently, six ceramic sculptures represented transformation. Among them, "As they say the bones of the earth are the stones" (2023) uniquely combined wooden and ceramic elements.▲ Woody De Othello, The healers gathered around, 2023, ceramic, glaze, bronze, bronze: 50.8 x 113.7 x 135.9 cm, ceramics in the shape of hands and faces: 55.9 x 53.3 x 53.3 cm, Edition of 3 plus 2 artist’s proofs (#1/3) , Courtesy of JESSICA SILVERMAN.

Othello's five oil paintings, evoking memories of his youthful escapades near San Francisco Bay, bridged domestic spaces with natural vistas. Moreover, Othello's innovative ceramic wall pieces, resembling clocks, encouraged viewers to ponder the multifaceted nature of time and memory.

▲ Woody de Othello, The Prophet Pointed to Me, 2023, ceramic, glaze, 114.3 x 43.2 x 66 cm, Courtesy of JESSICA SILVERMAN.

Woody De Othello's Journey:

Born in Miami in 1991, Woody De Othello was an epitome of innovation in contemporary art. His Haitian heritage and Miami upbringing were instrumental in molding his artistic perspective. Before settling in Oakland, California, Othello had enriched his craft through diverse experiences, influenced by urban settings, personal recollections, and the profound connection between humanity and nature.

Othello commenced his academic pursuits at Florida Atlantic University, advancing later to the prestigious California Institute of the Arts. His artworks, synonymous with originality, captivated global audiences. These weren't merely art pieces but dialogues, prompting introspection.

Throughout his career, Othello collaborated extensively, imparted knowledge through workshops, and even ventured into art criticism. He believed in community upliftment, mentoring emerging artists, and spearheading art initiatives in underprivileged areas.

His artworks were embraced by esteemed institutions worldwide, such as the Whitney Museum of American Art and Rome's MAXXI. His exhibitions, anticipated keenly by the art community, were a harmonious blend of reflection, cultural discourse, and masterful artistry.

Othello has been honored with various accolades for his art and his undying commitment to inclusivity in art. Reflecting on Woody De Othello's eminent career, it became apparent that he was more than just an artist; he was a transformative force in the realm of contemporary art.

▲ Woody De Othello, Mineral Wisdom, 2023, ceramic, glaze, 141 x 38.1 x 33 cm,Courtesy of JESSICA SILVERMAN.

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