New Orleans. “I’ve been taught that if something’s given to you, it’s very important for you to pass it on.  If I do something for a kid and he says, ‘Thank you,’ I don’t say, ‘You’re welcome.’  I say, ‘Pass it on.'” – John Scott

John Scott was raised in New Orleans, Loiusiana with a dream of becoming an artist.  He was taught at an early age to give back to the community that gave to him.  Scott went to Xavier University and returned there to teach after receiving his MFA at Michigan State University.  Scott’s art reflects the influences of an African American heritage and the jazz music of New Orleans.  They are often rhythmic and emotional.  Scott is best known for his kinetic sculptures that are meant to be put in motion.  The color and shape juxtaposed create an optical sense of kinetics.  In 1992, Scott was awarded with the prestigious MacArthur Foundation’s “Genius Award”.  THough he has been highly recognized for his sculpture, Scott places equal importance on his position as a teacher.  He feels a debt to younger artists and continues to pass on what has been given to him.

(American, 1940 – 2007)