DAVID HAMMONS
Pioneering Voice in Contemporary Conceptual Art
Exploring race, identity, and social commentary through powerful installations, sculptures, and performances that challenge conventions and spark dialogue.
About the Artist
A Visionary in Contemporary Art
David Hammons (b. 1943) is widely regarded as one of the most important contemporary artists of our time. His groundbreaking work addresses systemic racism, cultural identity, and the commodification of art with incisive wit and profound insight.
Working primarily with found objects and discarded materials from urban environments, Hammons transforms everyday items into powerful symbols that speak to the African American experience and contemporary social issues.
Notable Works
Explore iconic pieces that have defined Hammons' revolutionary approach to contemporary art
Injustice Case
Body Print • 1970
Powerful body print addressing police brutality and the Bobby Seale trial, featuring bound and gagged figure.
Spade Power
Body Print • 1969
Iconic print incorporating the spade symbol, reclaiming derogatory imagery in a powerful political statement.
America the Beautiful
Body Print • 1968
Early body print work exploring themes of patriotism and African American identity.
Career Timeline
Key moments and achievements throughout David Hammons' groundbreaking career
1943
Birth
Born in Springfield, Illinois
1963-1968
Education in Los Angeles
Moved to Los Angeles, studied at Los Angeles City College, Otis Art Institute, and Chouinard Art Institute (now CalArts)
1968-1974
Body Prints Period
Develops signature "Body Print" technique, creating powerful works addressing civil rights and social justice
1974
Move to New York
Relocates to New York City, begins working with found materials from Harlem streets
1983
Bliz-aard Ball Sale
Performs legendary street piece selling snowballs outside Cooper Union
1991
MacArthur Fellowship
Awarded prestigious "Genius Grant" for innovative contributions to contemporary art
2002
Documenta XI
Presents "Concerto in Black and Blue" at major international exhibition in Kassel, Germany
2007
Major Retrospective
Comprehensive exhibition at L&M Arts, New York
Present
Continued Innovation
Remains one of the most influential and sought-after contemporary artists
Major Exhibitions
Selected solo and group exhibitions at prestigious institutions worldwide
Hauser & Wirth
Solo Exhibition
Los Angeles, California
Mnuchin Gallery
Five Decades
New York, New York
São Paulo Biennial
US Representation
São Paulo, Brazil
L&M Arts
Major Retrospective
New York, New York
Documenta XI
Concerto in Black and Blue
Kassel, Germany
Museum of Modern Art
Group Exhibition
New York, New York
Artistic Philosophy
"Outrageousness is my method of questioning the society. You can't be normal in an abnormal society."
— David Hammons
Hammons' practice is characterized by its conceptual rigor and social consciousness. He works primarily with discarded materials—hair, bottle caps, chicken bones, basketballs—transforming them into powerful symbols that address race, class, and cultural identity.
His work challenges both the art establishment and broader societal structures, often with humor and irony that belie deep engagement with serious issues. By elevating "low" materials and ephemeral actions, Hammons questions what we value and why.
Recognition & Awards
Honored for revolutionary contributions to contemporary art
MacArthur Fellowship
1991
"Genius Grant" recognizing exceptional creativity and potential
Prix de Rome
1989
Prestigious fellowship for American artists
NEA Fellowship
1974
National Endowment for the Arts grant
Skowhegan Medal
2018
For Sculpture, recognizing lifetime achievement
Museum Collections
Works held in major public collections worldwide
Museum of Modern Art
New York, NY
Whitney Museum
New York, NY
Tate Modern
London, UK
Centre Pompidou
Paris, France
LACMA
Los Angeles, CA
Guggenheim Museum
New York, NY
Explore More
Discover the full range of David Hammons' groundbreaking work or get in touch to learn more about exhibitions and inquiries.