The exhibition at Spike Island explores the development of his work across Guyana, the UK and the United States over five decades, from the late 1960s to the early 2000s. It features over eighty works, from early ceramics that evoke human and natural forms to mixed-media sculptures and monochromatic black paintings from the 1970s. Also included are several large-scale paintings from the 1990s that incorporate found images along with ceramic, metal and wood elements. These materials reflect Locke’s evolving approach to the use of different media, his formal ingenuity and the growing influence of African American vernacular art and iconography, following his relocation to the United States.

Organised in collaboration with Spike Island, Bristol and Camden Art Centre, London with support from the Donald Locke Estate. The exhibition is generously supported by The Ampersand Foundation, Henry Moore Foundation, the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art, Alison Jacques and the Donald Locke Estate.