Basketball star Shaquille O'Neal has forayed into the art world as the curator of the exhibit "Size DOES Matter," on view at New York City's FLAG Art Foundation through May 27.
The exhibition, which explores the concept of size through art, features pieces such as Ron Mueck's "Big Man" sculpture and tiny versions of O'Neal and the Obama family in the eye of a needle, conceived by artist Willard Wigan. Other artists represented include Chuck Close, Jeff Koons, Elizabeth Peyton, Corban Walker and Cindy Sherman.
Stephanie Roach, director of the FLAG Art Foundation, says O'Neal was selected to curate the exhibit because he represents "size not only physically but in terms of how he views life."
The NewsHour speaks with O'Neal, Roach and several of the featured artists at the exhibition's opening reception.
Quotes
"We thought, who would be this representation of size not only physically but in terms of how he views life and his approach? Of course, Shaq came to mind and he was No. 1 on our list." -- Stephanie Roach, director of the FLAG Art Foundation.
"I was curious to see what [Shaquille O'Neal] was going to do, but I have to say, I am really very pleasantly surprised. I think he put together a very interesting selection of work. And he did a whole hell of a lot better figuring out what art to put in here than I would get shooting hoops, I'll tell you that." -- Chuck Close, artist.
"I think Shaquille did an incredible job picking things that relate not only to scale but also exploring different types of media, international artists, women, men, so I think there is something for everyone." -- Stephanie Roach, director of the FLAG Art Foundation.
"I named this art show 'Size DOES Matter,' because when something is so big and so beautiful, people have to take a second look, and I picked out some beautiful stuff by some great artists," -- Shaquille O'Neal.
Warm Up Questions
1. Do you like art? What kinds of art do you like the best?
2. What do you know about Shaquille O'Neal? What makes him unique as a sports star?
Discussion Questions
1. Do you think Shaquille O'Neal was a good choice to curate this exhibit? Why or why not? Who would you have chosen?
2. If you had to create a piece of art that represented the idea of "size," what would you make? Why?
3. If you were to curate an art exhibit, what theme would you choose for it? Why?
4. What do you think about sports stars like O'Neal exploring other career areas like art? Do you think it's a good idea? Why or why not?
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