Toy Soldiers: Cheekwood Exhibit Draws Suspicion From Local Artist

Opening in May, an exhibit at Cheekwood will feature more than 40 sculptures by artist Sean Kenney, whose pop-art-inspired works are made from more than 800,000 LEGO bricks. Local art fans are drawing comparisons between Kenney’s works and those of Nashville-based artist and Rymer Gallery curator Herb Williams, whose similar works utilize Crayola Crayons as their structural elements.

Of the similarities, Williams says this: "I am very flattered. I know it’s a pandemic but I am available to create artwork for an exhibit, especially a local museum. At the very least I would’ve appreciated a nod for the homage. … Feels a little like a slap in the face after being asked to donate artwork for their charity Swan Ball."