Fresh Air Painter Titus Kaphar On 'Exhibiting Forgiveness'
24 snips
Jun 19, 2025 
Titus Kaphar, a painter, sculptor, and installation artist known for deconstructing classical art to reveal hidden truths, shares his transformative journey. He discusses his life-altering decision to create the feature film 'Exhibiting Forgiveness' after abandoning a documentary project. Kaphar dives into the emotional complexities of familial forgiveness and artistic identity, while also addressing the struggles of financial realities in the art market. His poignant reflections highlight how art can serve as a powerful tool for understanding personal narratives and societal issues.
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From Documentary to Feature Film
- Titus Kaphar started filming a documentary when his estranged father showed up unexpectedly at his grandmother's house.
- The initial documentary felt unsatisfying because it lacked the voice of his childhood self, leading him to create a feature film instead.
Understanding Father's Motivations
- Writing the film required understanding his father's motivations, not just casting him as a villain.
- This process gave Kaphar new compassion and sympathy for his father’s struggles and context.
Writing and Painting in Tandem
- Kaphar wrote early morning, then translated writing into sketches and paintings, blending emotional writing with physical art creation.
- This simultaneous process helped him process memories and prepare to explain his past to his sons.