Amani M. Heywood
Nyzere Dillon
“The Vibration We Share”
Interview conducted by Amani Heywood
I choose to challenge stereotypes directly by showing images of their opposites... Our women are beautiful and are to be cherished". - Nyzere Dillon
All photos are provided by artist
Nyzere Dillon discusses how he chooses cultural narratives for his sculptures, focusing on lesser-known themes that resonate with personal experiences and feelings of home. Influenced by roots reggae music, he aims to amplify the voices of African communities and reflect social injustices. Dillon's sculpting process, characterized by the tactile nature of clay, fosters a deep connection to his subjects, which he hopes viewers will also feel. He challenges stereotypes of black identity by showcasing positive representations, such as love and pride in the black community, particularly through softer images of black women in his work. Engaging with the community is crucial for Dillon; he actively seeks feedback, viewing his art as a love letter to those he represents. His teaching approach is responsive to the classroom environment, emphasizing symbolism in sculpture as a reflection of the mind and soul. Collaborating with organizations like Nike NYC enriches his artistic perspective through meaningful dialogue. Looking to the future, Dillion wishes to create nurturing spaces that validate individual experiences and foster self-worth. He believes that emotional responses in viewers stem from small details in his work, which spark conversation. Ultimately, Dillon hopes his art will encourage vulnerability and open discussions about cultural identity, providing a safe space for dialogue within the community.
Can you elaborate on how you choose the specific cultural narratives you explore in your sculptures? What influences your selection process?
The subject matter of my work is always something that has to do with the lesser known or the already known but has yet to be seen as plateable. I want people to take a second look. I want people to look at my artwork and either see themselves or someone they've seen before. It's about what feels like home.
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You mention a commitment to amplifying the voices of African communities. Can you share a specific experience or story that has deeply influenced your work?
I am heavily influenced by roots reggae music. Its a very direct form of music that speaks about social injustice, the power imbalance, unity amongst all Africans, and oneness with all things. Music is huge for me, it sets the tone for a great deal of what I do.
How does the physicality of clay as a medium impact your artistic expression and the narratives you wish to convey?
Sculpting is a labor of love truly. It requires such a long process and that length of time brings me closer to my subject matter. The same warmth I feel creating is the warmth I want my
community to feeling when viewing.
In what ways do you think your sculptures challenge perceptions of black identity? Can you give an example of a piece that you feel particularly addresses this theme?
I choose to challenge stereotypes directly by showing images of their opposites. There are great examples of love in the black community. There are examples of proud fatherhood in our communities. Our women are beautiful and are to be cherished. An example of this is my series of Kayra Theodore, a pillar in the creative hair industry. I dedicated those sculptures to softer images of black women and even my choice of a pastel color palette, with pastel colors often times associated with the delicate and gentle. Its contrary to the belief that black women are
historically aggressive.
Community Engagement: You emphasize community empowerment in your work. How do you incorporate community feedback or involvement into your artistic practice?
I listen to every single word. In my line of artwork, its important that I take the time to listen to how my work makes my community feel. Its all just an extension of me but I consider it to be bigger than myself. The artwork is a love letter to my community completely.
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Can you discuss your approach to teaching sculpting courses? How do you integrate the concepts of familiarity and symbolism in your lessons?
My approach is always led by the energy in the room. Sculpture like all other artforms is truly an extension of your mind and soul.
What have been some key takeaways from your collaborations with organizations like Nike NYC and Monad Agency? How do these partnerships enhance your artistic vision?
I am thoroughly inspired and always honored to be partnered with such massive institutions. The conversations that take place are always extremely refreshing and allow me to experience my artwork in someone else's shoes. The best part for me is the conversation.
Looking towards the future, what mark do you hope to leave on future generations through your art?
I'm looking to create more loving spaces for the community. In all honesty, everything our inner child would have wanted access to but never got the chance to experience. The impact is more and more people looking inward and realizing that they mean something and are seen.
How do you aim to evoke emotional responses in viewers through your sculptures? Are there particular techniques you employ?
I believe the emotion comes from the simpler things. A tiny detail, a tiny detail there. Its always
made the difference and has always sparked the most conversation.
You express a desire to spark conversations about cultural identity. What conversations do you hope your art will initiate among viewers?
Currently really looking forward to more vulnerability. As a community who has been in survival
mode for so many years, I think some vulnerability is needed. I think art creates a safe enough
space for that dialogue.
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