Artist: Cole, Willie

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Willie Cole assembles and transforms everyday objects into powerful works of art. Cole uses the motif of the iron to discuss domestic labour by women of color, slave trade, and Yoruba traditions. He is represented by Alexander and Bonin Gallery (NYC), Muas Contemporary Gallery (Alabama), Gavlak Gallery (Los Angeles/ Florida) and Kavi Gupa Gallery (Chicago). Cole lives and works in New Jersey.

Sunbeam Male, Ceremonial

Willie Cole (American, b. 1955), "Sunbeam Male: Ceremonial", 2004, digital print on Epson 9600 using Ultra Chrome Archival Inks, 61 x 44 inches, edition of 12, published by the Brodsky Center at PAFA, Philadelphia.

Burning Bush

Willie Cole (American, b. 1955), "Burning Bush", 2002, five-color plate lithograph on Arches 88 paper, 21 ¼ x 13 ½ inches, edition of 60, published by the Brodsky Center at PAFA, Philadelphia.

Por La Mesa de Mi Abuelita

Willie Cole (American, b. 1955) "Por La Mesa de Mi Abuelita", 2007 pale pink pigmented cotton linter cut by water stream with embossing, two parts, 80 x 80 inches overall (40 x 80 inches each), edition of 10, published by the Brodsky Center at PAFA, Philadelphia.

Cole’s work in hand-made paper takes its inspiration from the centuries-old tradition of elaborate handcrafted lace produced to protect and decorate domestic furniture. Embedded in the overall imagery is Cole’s iconic figure obtained by scorching canvas, wood, or paper with a steam iron used to echo tribal masks to slave ships, references to West African […]