Update: On Tuesday, March 22nd, the Airport Authority, in a statement from president and CEO Scott Brockman, announced its intentions to reinstall the photo. “The Airport Authority appreciates the support that the community has shown for Tommy and we have made the decision to reinstall the artwork,” the statement reads. “We apologize to Tommy for the effect that this ordeal has had on him.”
Memphis photographer Tommy Kha’s work has been displayed in prominent galleries and museums all around the world. Not surprisingly, one of his photographs was included among the artworks selected for the new Concourse B at Memphis International Airport by the UrbanArt Commission. It was taken down this week, said the Airport Authority, in response to complaints from “Elvis fans.”
The photograph in question features Kha in an Elvis jumpsuit, standing in a kitchen with what appears to be 1950s-era furniture.
Scott Brockman, president of the airport authority, released a statement regarding the removal of the photo:
“Recently, the Airport Authority has received a lot of negative feedback from Elvis fans about one of the art pieces that was purchased and installed in our recently modernized concourse. When the airport created its art program, our goal was to purchase and display artwork that did not include public figures or celebrities.
“Our selection committee made an exception in the case of Tommy Kha’s piece and recommended its purchase. This was the only piece in the art collection that depicted a celebrity or public figure. While we understand that the artist created the piece as a tribute to Elvis, the public reaction has been strong, leading us to revisit that original goal of avoiding the depiction of public figures in our art collection. As a result, the airport determined it was best to temporarily remove the piece while we determine our best path forward.
“We are open to the possibility of commissioning new artwork by Tommy Kha to replace his previous piece.
“Among the complaints, there were a small number of comments that included language that referred to Mr. Kha’s race, and such comments are completely unacceptable. The Airport Authority does not support those comments nor does it form the basis for the Authority’s decision regarding the piece. MSCAA has been very intentional to emphasize local artists, diversity and inclusion with this art program, and we will continue to do so.”
The UrbanArt Commission also issued a statement:
“UAC respects and appreciates Tommy Kha and his art, and was pleased to recommend him to be included in the Memphis International Airport collection. Tommy grew up in Whitehaven, has spent years doing documentary work around Elvis tribute artists/impersonators, and considers himself a part of that community.
“We are opposed to Tommy Kha’s installation being removed from display, especially considering the openly racist comments made online in the development of this situation. … Airport leadership has chosen to remove an artwork from a Memphis artist, for reasons that we adamantly disagree with. UAC is in contact with the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority and advocates for the artwork to be reinstalled.”
Editor’s Note: The Flyer is working on a more comprehensive story about this situation. Stay tuned.
