KA Spirit I, 2023, is a hand-carved oak wood drum with mahogany stain, mirrored glass tiles, and marble base.

The sculpture is decorated with two winged figures who are bending, perhaps bowing or dancing, towards the center of the drum. They are lithe and lean, presenting androgynous features in a style reminiscent of Minoan wall paintings. The top of the drum is decorated in an intricate geometric design. Two columns of mirrored tiles run through the central face of the work, accompanied by applique tiles on its left and right. The back of the sculpture feature three large cavities, which provide the deep percussive sound when used as a musical instrument. The work is playable and sculptures in this series have at times been activated by Radin’s uncles as part of the artist’s performances.

Both the carving and the playing of drums have a wider significance in the cultures of Guadeloupe, where they have deep-rooted political associations: the characteristic music of gwo ka was an act of remembrance and resistance for the enslaved population. The titles of the sculptures Hidden in Plain Sight (Esther Schipper 2024) are derived from the ancient Egyptian concept of "ka", a principal aspect of the soul of a human or divine being. In ancient Egypt, ka statues were believed to have acted as surrogates for the deceased, housing their spirit and providing a vessel to which their descendants could make offerings. Radin's work thus draws on the transformative power of movement for both body and spirit.

Work may be sold with or without marble base, depending on preference of collector.

ARCO 2026 – Booth