About
A nail-pierced Tuskegee Airman by Michael Richards, who died in his World Trade Center studio, anchors a new Brooklyn Museum spotlight.
Michael Richards sculpted a Tuskegee Airman with eyes closed and dozens of nails piercing his arms and torso, fusing Kongo nkisi nkondi guardian figures with images of Saint Sebastian. Richards died on September 11, 2001, in his studio in the World Trade Center's North Tower. Installed for the 25th anniversary, the piece has become an unintended memorial to him and a tribute to the Airmen.
What to expect
A single sculpture presented as an intimate spotlight in the first-floor lobby, with context on the Tuskegee Airmen and the artist's life. It takes minutes to see and stays with you far longer.
Good to know
- Located in the Rubin Lobby on the first floor — no need to go upstairs
- Included in general admission
- The 2/3 at Eastern Parkway–Brooklyn Museum stops at the door
- A moving stop to pair with the museum's larger shows
Common questions
Who were the Tuskegee Airmen?
The first Black unit of the U.S. armed air forces, formed in 1941 when the military was segregated.
Why the nails?
They reference Kongolese nkisi nkondi guardian figures and Western images of Saint Sebastian.