Dustin Klein, American
Reclaiming the Monument, 2020
Dustin Klein’s Reclaiming the Monument is a work that “reclaims” the space of the Robert E. Lee Monument in Richmond, Virginia, a symbol of hatred and racism. A series of video projections lasting multiple nights, Reclaiming the Monument started out as a memorial dedicated to those whose lives were lost to police brutality then shifted to a space supporting black empowerment and those protesting injustice. This work also shifts the energy surrounding the space from one of intimidation and discomfort to that of healing and support. The image shown above pictures Breonna Taylor, who was killed by police in Kentucky. Her face brings color to the dark, looming figure of Robert E. Lee, while BLM is projected on the figure, directing the attention of onlookers from the figure itself to the message on its surface and literally as well as figuratively overpowering the message the monument sends. Label by Grace Moser