Derek Fordjour Held Exhibition Talk at New Haven Gallery

The artist discussed his current exhibition, Fumble, during a public event at NXTHVN.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Fine Art

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring layered cardboard, paper, and foil fragments in a geometric collage, representing contemporary mixed-media art. — Artist Derek Fordjour held an exhibition talk at the New Haven gallery NXTHVN on October 4, 2026, to discuss his multidisciplinary exhibition, Fumble. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Artist Derek Fordjour, the 2026-2027 visiting artist at NXTHVN, held an exhibition talk on October 4, 2026. The discussion covered his latest work currently on display at the New Haven gallery.

Why it matters

Fordjour aims to bolster the long-term viability of Black arts institutions through his residency and exhibition. His engagement provides insight into the scholarly research and artistic process behind his multidisciplinary work.

The Fumble exhibition is on display from September 23 to November 22, 2026, at 169 Henry St. Fordjour will have a career-spanning monograph published by Phaidon in 2027.

The players

Derek Fordjour

He is an artist serving as the 2026-2027 visiting artist for the New Haven gallery NXTHVN.

NXTHVN

This is an arts institution located in New Haven that supports artists and curators through residencies and exhibitions.

Titus Kaphar

He is an artist and co-founder of the NXTHVN institution who participated in the exhibition talk.

Imani Perry

She is an author and scholar who joined the discussion regarding Fordjour's creative process.

John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

This private foundation provides grants and support for various cultural and social initiatives.

The details

The exhibition features a blend of collage, video, and sculpture, with collage works constructed from acrylic, charcoal, cardboard, oil pastel, and foil on newspaper. Fordjour explored his creative methods alongside Titus Kaphar and Imani Perry during the event sponsored by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.

September 23, 2026: Fumble exhibition opened at NXTHVN.
October 4, 2026: Derek Fordjour participated in an artist talk.
November 22, 2026: Fumble exhibition is scheduled to close.
2027: Phaidon will release a new monograph of Fordjour's work.

Industry Dynamics

This residency aligns with the growing trend of artist-led institutions building long-term community infrastructure. It follows the model set by the NXTHVN residency program to bridge the gap between contemporary exhibition spaces and local neighborhood development.

Visitors can view the Fumble exhibition at the NXTHVN gallery in New Haven through late November. The upcoming 2027 monograph will provide a new way for the public to access a comprehensive collection of Fordjour's work outside of the gallery space.

The takeaway

Supporting local arts institutions like NXTHVN ensures that contemporary artists have a platform to conduct scholarly research and engage the public. Readers can support similar initiatives by visiting exhibitions and participating in academic discussions hosted by local galleries.