Memorial Art Gallery Presents John Rhoden Retrospective with Dance Collaboration by Garth Fagan Dance

Rochester, NY—The Memorial Art Gallery announces the opening of its newest major exhibition, Determined to Be: The Sculpture of John Rhoden, now on view through August 23. The exhibition traces the career of African American artist John Walter Rhoden (1916–2001), one of the most prolific sculptors of the twentieth century, bringing together works that span several decades.

Rhoden worked in a style that was both innovative and ahead of his time, drawing inspiration from international travels, sensualism, and a breadth of visual influences. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Rhoden developed an early interest in sculpture and was encouraged by local artists and mentors to expand his talent. He went on to study art and establish a career in New York City before traveling and engaging in creative endeavors around the world. Featuring approximately forty sculptures in bronze, wood, and stone, this comprehensive exhibition reveals the remarkable scope of Rhoden’s artistic vision while highlighting his technical mastery.

A dialogue between sculpture and dance

Memorial Art Gallery has partnered with Garth Fagan Dance and Floating Home Films to explore the relationship between stillness and movement. Responding to the rhythmic qualities often attributed to Rhoden’s work, PJ Pennewell, Artistic Director of Garth Fagan Dance, created a series of short, original movements inspired by five sculptures in the exhibition. These performances, screened within the exhibition, offer an alternative to traditional interpretive labels—inviting visitors to experience the sculptures through motion, gesture, and narrative.

Each piece unfolds as a brief story in movement, performed by Garth Fagan Dance artists Sabrina Shiman, Kiara Jolié Haywood, Daria Clarke, Janalyce Lane, Raea Moorehead, Charlie Curran, and Jahkim Hodge-Price. Produced in collaboration with filmmaker Alex Weiser, this special presentation introduces a dynamic, multi-perspective way to engage with Rhoden’s work.

Plan a visit

Determined to Be: The Sculpture of John Rhoden offers a rare opportunity to see the extraordinary work of this significant American artist, underscoring Rhoden’s enduring artistic impact and illuminating his significant contributions to the field of twentieth-century sculpture. More information about the exhibition and admission tickets can be found here.