Gavin Benjamin: Heads of State at BoxHeart Gallery

Artist Gavin Benjamin combines his original analog photography and appropriated images with collage, paint, varnish, and other materials like Swarovski crystals to create a mash-up of couture art. He investigates the intersection of culture, media, politics, fashion, and design, addressing questions that (continue to) confront a man of color in America today.

In collaboration with The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, Benjamin recently created portraits paying homage to fourteen of Pittsburgh’s legendary sports figures. Featuring; Joe Greene, Franco Harris, Honus Wagner, Roberto Clemente, Bill Mazeroski, Mario Lemieux, Sidney Crosby, Josh Gibson, Arnold Palmer, Swin Cash, John Woodruff, Suzie McConnell Serio, Chuck Cooper, and Dan McCoy, a selection of these original artworks will be exhibited as part of Benjamin’s “Heads of State” exhibition. The reproductions of these portraits are currently presented in "Downtown Renown" a walking trail of windows in Downtown Pittsburgh locations. "Downtown Renown” is intended to appeal to sports fans of all ages and provide teachable moments for families that reflect our collective sense of community, local history, and hometown pride.

Explore all of his work at the BoxHeart Gallery now through January 1.