Sheldon Scott

Illustration by Napoleon Wright II

Sheldon Scott’s art challenges the viewer on topics of race, sexuality and economics. Have you heard of “hyper-capitalism” yet? The hammocks in his “Altar of Repose: I’m gonna lay down…” will have you thinking about it. Or maybe his sparkly footballs have intercepted your attention? But it was his performance art, “Portrait, number 1 man (day clean ta sun down)” that moved us to the core. We had to chat:

Where were you last night?

Loitering on U Street (Washington D.C.) eating ice cream.  

For better or worse, how has an experience with love or relationships shaped your perspective?

For the better. I learned what really matters to me and how I can be a better partner.  

Describe the strangest dream you’ve ever had?

When I had COVID I had a dream about me and Mary J Blige trying to find a 24-hour Dollar General to buy lube.  

What’s the hardest lesson you’ve ever had to learn?  

No one will ever love you like your mother.  

What art piece has had the biggest impact on you?  

This is tough, and maybe a bit unfair. While I can’t put my thumb on a single piece, I can say that when I feel lost in my practice I often go back to this set of jars (see below). I made these as my first piece of “fine art” and they remind me of why I do what I do.  

Exorcism of the Sweet by Sheldon Scott. Photo: Ben Carver