Meet our guest editor, Keith Ramsey of Ramsey Art Works. Keith is a Richmond based contemporary and conceptual artist, designer, and sculptor. He’s known for his found object artwork and his commitment to initiating conversation through his art that serves as commentary on politics, society, social conditions, isolation, and more. He’s also the co-founder of Bike Monday Bros, a series of group rides that promote unity and inclusion. Keith recently wrapped up a sculpture called "Edwards the Fisherman" (pictured) that is part of a downtown scavenger hunt as Richmonders try to determine the exact location of RVA's newest piece of public art. Take it away, Keith ...
On June 30, 2016, my world changed. It was my last day employed as a professional graphic designer...and it wasn't by choice. But, I did realize the universe had a plan for me as an artist. After spending the weekends, putting in time after hours, and using every minute to hone my creativity, that change had finally arrived. From that day forward I built my life around being a full-time professional artist on my own terms and I never looked back. Here are my tips for finding inspiration and being prepared for opportunities in this city we love to call home.
That COVID
Thing for VCU
My first piece of advice is to always say "yes" when you're called upon to help. Look for ways to roll up your sleeves and make an impact with the unique skills you can offer. Back in March, as an example, I was contacted out of the blue from someone needing a welder to help put together 12+ racks for VCU Health that would be used to sterilize medical supplies in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. There were projects already in the workshop, but before he could get halfway through asking if I could help it was already a hard "YES" from me. It was more welding in a short amount of time than I had ever done, but after a week of straight 9-hour days we got the racks out the door! The thing about that is, I was proud to be able to do something...anything, to help with the crisis our nation and the world is facing. It was a small part by comparison to what others are doing and sacrificing, but it was what I personally could do with the resources I had. When called upon, offer your creativity, find ways to help and be ready to say "yes" when asked.
A few years ago I joined a ride with friends participating in Bike Walk RVA for Bike Month and was immediately hooked. Saying yes to that initial ride led to more gatherings, and before I knew it we were pedaling around the city every Monday. With each ride more and more friends joined our route each week. After the protest of the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and more African-Americans at the hands of police and vigilante citizens, we decided to bring our biking community together with a “Unity Ride for Black Lives" involving over 250 people riding through downtown and the Fan District. Today, we're still getting together on Mondays to ride and we always invite the community to ride along with us. Now called Bike Monday Bros, our series of rides are designed for riders to meet new people and to enjoy our local bike culture for an evening. Check out Bike Monday Bros on Instagram and come ride with us!
We all need a place to hang, share ideas, and find inspiration. Due to COVID, it's hard to find this kind of place like we used to. But with Crossroads open again (at limited capacity) this month, there's finally an option for the community to gather at a favorite local coffee shop. While I spend most of my time in my workshop in the Valley Manufacturing Building in the Northside working on commissions or personal projects, I always save time for a trip to Crossroads on the Southside for lively conversation, good food and coffee, and a creativity boost. Loyal fans love this place so much that when Crossroads was closed for months its regulars organized a GoFundMe campaign to support its reopening. We all chipped in and like many, I made donations when possible, used my social media to bring awareness, and offered creative ideas to help when asked. Go check out this classic coffee shop, and other favorite local coffee shops around town, to let them know we're glad they're open.
Hidden somewhere in downtown Richmond is "Edwards the Fisherman," a towering new installation made from found objects by Keith Ramsey. Inspired by African-American contemporary artist and sculptor Melvin Edwards, this important piece reminds us that public art and the process through which it is produced should positively impact the community, create a sense of inclusion, and forge connection between citizens and our open spaces.
