Lorenzo Pace (Finding Aid)

Lorenzo Pace

1943 -

Favorite Color: Orange

Favorite Food: Flounder and Sea Bass

Favorite Time of Year: Spring

Favorite Vacation Spot: West Africa

Interview Length: 149 minutes

Interview Date(s): December 17, 2000

Interview Location(s): New York, New York

Abstract

Artist Lorenzo Pace pays tribute to his parents and his ancestors, detailing the backgrounds and personalities of both his mother and father. Pace explains how he paid tribute to both of them through his artwork. Pace also explains how a lock that was used to enslave his great-great-grandfather served as inspiration for a children's book he wrote, 'Jalani and the Lock'. Artist Lorenzo Pace shares memories of his early childhood in Birmingham, Alabama, detailing the strong community in which he grew up and describing his family life, much of which revolved around the church. Pace then explains why his family decided to move north to Chicago, Illinois, and talks about how he and his siblings and parents made that difficult transition. Pace contrasts his neighborhood on the South Side with Alabama and explains the differences. Artist Lorenzo Pace details his year spent abroad in Paris, France, and explains how that changed his life and prepared him for becoming an artist. Pace recalls his first interest in the arts and narrates his artistic development from wood carving through sculpture with metals and clay. Pace also describes his parents' reactions to his newfound artistic lifestyle. Artist Lorenzo Pace details his art career in Chicago and New York. Pace describes his first successful exhibition in Chicago and how he gained prominence in the local art scene. Pace then talks about his time at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he learned how to expand his boundaries into the realm of performance art. Pace details one of his controversial performance pieces in Chicago, and then explains his decision to move to New York City. Pace tells of how the move affected his artwork, and recalls some of his most successful pieces in New York, including his award-winning sculpture, 'Triumph of the Human Spirit'. Artist Lorenzo Pace tells the full story of his award-winning monument, 'Triumph of the Human Spirit'. Pace explains his inspiration for the design of the sculpture, and talks about his artistic process. Pace then details the controversy surrounding the sculpture's various designs and unveiling ceremony. Pace then reflects on his life and career and talks about how the human condition and the strength of African Americans has inspired his work. Artist Lorenzo Pace names people who have influenced his life and career, and takes a moment to consider his legacy.

34 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)