The path to success has not been without it’s challenges though; the adversities and stigmas that artists of color face within the industry is a tragedy that is not as recognized as it should be. Additionally, the accessibility and visibility of artists of color is vital and should be at the forefront of changes in this community. As Kyle and Kelly put it, “We are visual artists 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year… meaning we are not just visual artist during the month of February, the shortest month of the year! Although we both fully understand, respect, and appreciate the intentions of Black History Month, we are more than one month! Then there is the expectation to be the spokesperson for an entire race. Our working-class work is not overtly about race, although we do address works about social justice, and race issues in America. We have had criticism that our work was not Afrocentric enough because our work does not exclusively use themes based on the African American experience. Our work not only talks about the challenges of race, but also our rich working-class heritage. At times there seems to be an expectation from society that being a black artist means to make “angry black man” art. So how do we overcome these challenges. We keep making the work! F… them whoever they may be!” The dedication to “making art that matters” no matter the obstacles is one that Kyle & Kelly hope to pass on to other artists. When asked how they hoped to inspire others, they said, “Simple…We would tell other artist to just make art! No matter what struggles, adversities, or challenges you may encounter, keep making art! Stay the path. As we stated above respect tradition, learn it all, but don’t be afraid explore, and integrate materials, mediums, and processes”. Their sheer determination and talent have helped them to overcome obstacles and they have forged success within ceramics and sculpture with pieces that are beautiful, intricate, and breathtaking; however, their dedication towards creating real change within the community should be commended just as highly. The Phelps brothers explained that their positions within ceramics, sculpture, and art education is their most important contribution to this industry and said, “Our favorite or most important contribution to the ceramics world is the fact that we are both teaching courses as Full Professors in Ceramics and Sculpture. Just being people of color and being visible to students is an important contribution. It’s important especially for students to see that there are ceramists of color in the ceramic world”. During Bracker’s Community in Clay talks for NCECA 2021, the Diversity in Clay project made its first appearance at the national conference, and the Phelps brothers actively participated with invaluable stories, experiences, and discourse about diversity, inclusion, equity, the challenges artists of color face within the industry, and steps that can be taken to alleviate some of these challenges. Kyle and Kelly Phelps create exquisite pieces that capture blue-collar, working community life in all its triumphs and struggles while artistically capturing, portraying, and discussing societal issues and the beauty and truth of their inspirations. Their pieces bring light to the stories of their inspirations and then demand thought and dialogue from the viewers. Through their incredible work, and their own involvement, the Phelps brothers are taking an active role in creating the discussions and change that are so very needed.

Gallery Representation