Nasher Sculpture Center will present 360: Melvin Edwards. The Nasher’s ongoing speaker series features conversations and lectures on the ever-expanding definition of sculpture and the minds behind some of the world’s most innovative artwork, architecture and design.

A pioneering figure in African-American art, Edwards has redefined the modernist tradition of welded metal sculpture with his imaginative and defiant explorations of social, political and personal issues. Edwards is best known for the Lynch Fragments, an ongoing series borne out of the turbulence of the civil rights movement, in which ax heads, chains, railroad spikes and other implements are fused together in powerfully compressed, abstract configurations emblematic of repressed violence and the constructive possibilities of resistance.

Edwards’ career spans crucial periods of upheaval and change in American culture and society, and his sculpture provides a critical bridge between modernist techniques and materials and more contemporary approaches to the art object.  Of his 1970 installation at the Whitney, David Hammons has commented, “I couldn’t believe that piece when I saw it because I didn’t think you could make abstract art with a message."

The artist will speak in conjunction with the exhibition, Melvin Edwards: Five Decades, the first major touring retrospective of this seminal sculptor’s work in more than 20 years.

Seating is limited, so reservations are requested. Immediately following the presentation, guests will enjoy a wine reception with RSVP. For information and reservations, email 360rsvp@nashersculpturecenter.org or call 214-242-5159.