Date of Birth: August 28, 1973
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Biography
Theaster Gates is an American artist known for his innovative work that spans a range of media, including sculpture, installation, performance, and urban interventions. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Gates has built a reputation for transforming abandoned spaces into vibrant community hubs. He is the founder of the Rebuild Foundation, a platform that focuses on cultural redevelopment and affordable housing in underprivileged areas. Gates’ work often addresses social, political, and economic issues, and he is particularly noted for his commitment to revitalizing the South Side of Chicago. His artistic practice is deeply influenced by urban planning, African-American history, and the traditions of craft and labor. Gates holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Urban Planning from Iowa State University and a Master of Fine Arts degree in Ceramics from the University of Iowa. He also studied in Japan, where he was influenced by the country’s craft traditions. Over the years, Gates has received numerous awards and honors, including the Artes Mundi Prize in 2015. His work has been exhibited in renowned institutions such as the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, and the Tate Modern in London.
5 Interesting Facts about Theaster Gates
1. Theaster Gates is also a trained urban planner and has a strong interest in the dynamics of cities and communities.
2. He is the founder of the Rebuild Foundation, which aims to revitalize underserved neighborhoods in Chicago.
3. Gates’ work often incorporates found materials and objects, giving them new life and meaning.
4. In 2015, he won the Artes Mundi Prize, one of the UK’s most prestigious art awards.
5. Gates has a strong musical component in his work, often collaborating with musicians and incorporating sound into his installations.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Theaster Gates
1. “Art and culture are the greatest ways to bring about justice and equality.”
2. “The things that I make and the spaces that I create are attempts to breathe new life into places that have been neglected.”
3. “I want to show that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places.”
4. “My work is about making the invisible visible.”
5. “Community is at the heart of everything I do.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth achieved by Theaster Gates is estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
Theaster Gates has one daughter, Ava Gates.
Relevant Links
1. [Theaster Gates Official Website](https://theastergates.com/
2. [Rebuild Foundation](https://rebuild-foundation.org/
3. [Artes Mundi Prize](https://artesmundi.org/
4. [Theaster Gates at Tate Modern](https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artists/theaster-gates-17506
5. [Theaster Gates at Whitney Museum](https://whitney.org/artists/14639
