Mahler B. Ryder

In this mixed-media sculpture, teardrop-shaped piano hammers fan out from a pink center. Mahler Ryder was inspired by the music of jazz pianist Keith Jarrett, and this and other works in this series feature parts from actual pianos. Visual references are also made, as seen in the black and white stripes, which suggest piano keys. Ryder’s choices of various textures, colors, and shapes translate Jarrett’s sound—defined by his daring improvisations live in concert—into tangible form, while the theme of jazz music plays into Ryder’s consistent celebration of his African American identity through iconic examples of Black American culture.

In addition to teaching for decades at RISD, Ryder was a founder of the Studio Museum in Harlem.