cover of episode Painter Titus Kaphar On 'Exhibiting Forgiveness'

Painter Titus Kaphar On 'Exhibiting Forgiveness'

2024/10/24
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Key Insights

Why did Titus Kaphar decide to turn his documentary idea into a feature film?

The documentary felt unsatisfying as it only showed where he was, not how he got there, and lacked the child's voice.

How did writing and painting simultaneously impact Titus Kaphar's creative process?

He wrote in the mornings and painted in the afternoons, using his writing to inform his painting and vice versa.

Why did Titus Kaphar feel it was important to understand his father's motivations in writing the film?

To create a more nuanced character and gain compassion for his father, moving beyond seeing him as just a villain.

What message does Titus Kaphar hope to convey through his film 'Exhibiting Forgiveness'?

The film explores generational healing and how families can ensure their children don't carry the same wounds.

Why did Titus Kaphar choose to make a film instead of sticking to painting?

Film is more accessible and less elitist than gallery spaces, allowing a broader audience to engage with his work.

How did Titus Kaphar's interaction with an art dealer in 'Shut Up and Paint' reflect his struggle with the commodification of his art?

The dealer asked him to stop being an activist and focus solely on painting, which he refused to do.

What does Titus Kaphar want to achieve by making his art more accessible?

He wants to bridge the gap between his background and the world that engages with his work, making it more inclusive.

How did the experience of painting a mother holding a silhouette of a child, inspired by George Floyd's last words, affect Titus Kaphar?

It was deeply emotional, reflecting his own mother's fear of losing her sons and the broader issue of police violence.

Why does Titus Kaphar use deconstruction techniques in his paintings?

To challenge historical narratives and reveal hidden truths, forcing viewers to confront the erasure of Black Americans.

How does Titus Kaphar view the relationship between forgiveness and reconciliation?

He distinguishes between the two, emphasizing that forgiveness can occur without reconciliation, especially if it puts one in harm's way.

Chapters

Titus Kaphar discusses the transformation of his life story from a documentary to a feature film, highlighting the unsatisfying nature of the documentary and the need to include the child's voice.
  • The documentary felt unsatisfying as it only reflected the adult's perspective.
  • Kaphar decided to move the project into a feature film to include the child's voice.
  • The film, 'Exhibiting Forgiveness,' explores generational healing and forgiveness.

Shownotes Transcript

When painter, sculptor, and installation artist Titus Kaphar's life was upended by his estranged father, he turned to film. First he decided to tell his story in a documentary, but scrapped the project when it felt unsatisfying. His new feature film, Exhibiting Forgiveness, tells his story and brings his paintings to life. Kaphar talked to Tonya Mosley about his journey to healing. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)