Nari Ward is the winner of the Chuck Close Rome Prize in Visual Arts and an artist in New York.
What part of the United States did you come from?
I live in New York.
Why did you apply for the Rome Prize?
I was interested in the Arte Povera movement and artists associated with using quotidian materials specifically to address personal, moral and social issues.
Describe a particularly inspiring moment or location you've experienced in Rome thus far.
We were granted access to the space below the Coliseum floor and the same day we were able to tour the very top of its walls.
Have you had any "eureka!" moments or unanticipated breakthroughs in the course of your work here?
Since being in Rome I have had to rely on drawing my ideas out as a starting point for entering a process and acquiring materials. This is something I rarely do in my New York studio however I find that it is extremely helpful especially when working with others.
What aspect of your project are you most looking forward to?
The exhibition of the works.
What is your favorite spot at the Academy? or in Rome?
The local mercatino.