John Outterbridge was an American artist who made significant contributions to the world of sculpture, assemblage, and installation art. Born in 1933 in Greenville, North Carolina, Outterbridge's artistic career spanned over five decades and was characterized by his unique ability to transform discarded materials into thought-provoking works of art. His early works often included found objects from the streets of Los Angeles, California, where he moved in the 1960s to become a part of the city's vibrant art scene. Outterbridge's artistic practice was heavily influenced by his experiences as an African-American man living in the United States during a time of significant social and political change. His works often explored themes of race, identity, and the African-American experience, and he was known for his ability to use art as a means of social commentary and critique. Notable works by Outterbridge include And Justice For All (1999), a series of ten mixed media sculptures expressing themes of racial injustice; Mourning on a Sunday (1985), a mixed media installation piece about the black church; and Spectrum (1987), an assemblage of brightly colored, recycled materials. Throughout his career, Outterbridge was recognized as a leading figure in the world of contemporary art, and his works were exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. In addition to his artistic practice, Outterbridge was also a dedicated educator, and he taught at several institutions, including the University of California, Los Angeles, and the Otis College of Art and Design. Overall, John Outterbridge was a highly influential artist whose works continue to inspire and challenge viewers today. His ability to transform discarded materials into meaningful works of art, combined with his commitment to using art as a means of social commentary, make him a significant figure in the history of contemporary art.
John Outterbridge, American artist, sculpture, assemblage, installation art, found objects, Los Angeles, African-American experience, social commentary, racial injustice, contemporary art, educator
CITATION : "Richard Martinez. 'John Outterbridge.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=292567 (Accessed on July 16, 2025)"
John Outterbridge is a highly acclaimed American artist best known for his sculpture, assemblage and installation work. During his career, he has produced meaningful artworks that touch upon issues of race, identity, and the African-American experience. His early works often included found objects from the streets of Los Angeles, California. Notable works by Outterbridge include 'And Justice For All' (1999), a series of ten mixed media sculptures expressing themes of racial injustice; 'Mourning on a Sunday' (1985), a mixed media installation piece about the black church; and 'Spectrum' (1987), an assemblage of brightly colored, recycled materials.
John Outterbridge, American Artist, Assemblage, Installation, Sculpture.
— Mei Wang
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