Michael Richards: Free F’All

In Free F’All, American artist Michael Richards (1963–2001) depicts a pilot with closed eyes, pierced by dozens of nails. The sculpture honors the Tuskegee Airmen, the US Air Force’s first Black unit, formed in 1941. Despite their achievements during World War II, they served in a context of segregation and racial discrimination.
The nails reference Kongolese nkisi nkondi figures, associated with protection, as well as Saint Sebastian, the Christian martyr. The work explores violence, sacrifice, protection and resistance. Richards died at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

Michael Richards. [Untitled] (Free F’All), 1997. Fiberglass and resin with iron oxide. Brooklyn Museum, Anonymous gift in honor of Michael Richards, 2007.20. © Estate of Michael Richards. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)