Recoloration Proclamation: The New York City Hangings

In 2004, artist John Sims’ exhibition, Recoloration Proclamation: The Gettysburg Redress at Gettysburg College stirred national controversy with his installation “The Proper Way to Hang a Confederate Flag.” Originally the work was conceived as an outdoor piece of a confederate flag hanging from a 13 foot gallows. Now, with Recoloration Proclamation: The New York City Hangings, Sims “hangs” a collection of his Confederate flags, including an interior adapted version of “The Proper Way to Hang a Confederate Flag” and “The Drag Flag” (done in hot pink, lavender, glitter and fur). At the opening, Sims projects a motion graphic rewrite of Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address”, the “Gettysburg Redress.” He also premieres “The Confederate Bondage Flag,” featuring leather and chains.

The opening reception, called “The Picnic on the Bowery,” features a guest appearance by nationally acclaimed performance artist Karen Finley, political artist Dread Scott, Def Jam Poet Tara Betts, vocalist June April and a remake of “Dixie” by Greg Tate’s group, Burnt Sugar.