Dec 15, 2022
Hank Willis Thomas and Ryan Alexiev: the truth is i am you
Large balloons floating throughout NXTHVN’s gallery space—a nod to Andy Warhol’s Silver Clouds (1966)—invite viewers to respond directly to the prompt “the truth is…” as the exhibition progresses, forming a collective, participatory experience. Balloons with phrases from an accompanying poem composed by Thomas and Alexiev serve as an example: “the truth is i respect you” and “the truth is i welcome you.” A vibrant speech bubble bench sits outside, beckoning visitors to rest and contemplate their truth before entering.