This week, the NOT REAL ART podcast features Casey Fletcher, a grant recipient whose exploration of identity, faith, and artistic expression is both personal and provocative. As a biracial artist raised in a family committed to the Salvation Army, Fletcher's work reflects his own experiences while challenging societal norms and sparking meaningful conversations about culture, spirituality, and belonging.
In this episode, he shares details about his recent project involving the Chamberlain Rock—a boulder removed from the University of Wisconsin campus because of its association with racist terminology. This initiative showcases Casey's dedication to confronting historical injustices and initiating dialogue about race and identity. For him, art transcends mere self-expression; it is a powerful means of cultivating community discourse that fosters understanding and healing.
Throughout the episode, Casey articulates a vision of art that is deeply connected to his faith and personal convictions. He views his artistic practice as a journey toward truth, encouraging others to embark on their own paths of discovery. Ultimately, this episode highlights the transformative nature of art, demonstrating how creativity can serve as a catalyst for change and a bridge for empathy in an increasingly divided society.
Quotes From This Episode
“As an artist, I am kind of always pushing back, or was always pushing back against sort of the water I was swimming in.” — Casey Fletcher [12:20]
“Love yourself, but at the same time, if there's a part of you that's getting in the way of righteousness or knowledge or love, let that part of you die or let your specific interest that you have for yourself die so that goodness can kind of like work around you.” — Casey Fletcher [17:07]
“I just had to sort of build the world that was not built for me. And that's how I ended up doing a lot of art stuff.” — Casey Fletcher [36:11]
“I feel called to this, and if I don't do it, maybe that space is going to get taken up by somebody who wants it less or is less compelled to do it.” — Casey Fletcher [46:30]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode
NOT REAL ART 2024 Grant Winners Exhibition
About Casey Fletcher
Casey Fletcher (b. 1993) is an interdisciplinary artist based in Madison, Wisconsin. His work delves into themes such as race, machine/human interaction, and the complexities of faith and health. Through sculptural pieces made from diverse materials, including found objects and Crayola crayons, Casey aims to create moments of embodiment that challenge the disconnection prevalent in modern society. His work fosters reflection and inquiry, promoting human connection and understanding in a world often dominated by superficial interactions.
All images published with permission of the artist(s); featured graphic: David Schwartz.