Memory Landscape (Nairobi, Chicago, Honolulu, Jakarta), 2025

By Spencer Finch

About

The artwork

In Memory Landscape (Nairobi, Chicago, Honolulu, Jakarta) , memories come to life in fields of color. Created in collaboration with President Obama, the work draws from his life: details like a shoreline, an industrial view, a childhood car. Artist Spencer Finch then transformed these recollections into assemblages of colored tiles, connecting personal history with a broader sense of place.

Location: Forum | Lower Level Lobby

The artist

Spencer Finch works across media including watercolor, photography, glass, and light. His practice often centers on perception—how we experience color, time, and memory. Known for installations that translate fleeting moments into physical form, Finch draws on science, observation, and personal research. He studied at Hamilton College and the Rhode Island School of Design, and lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Spencer Finch is crouching down staring off into the distance. Behind him is a body of water with several large rocks sitting in the water. Spencer Finch has pale skin and short light colored hair. He is wearing round glasses that are a dark color. He is wearing a blue button-down shirt, dark pants, and a black watch.

Explore More

  • A Deep Dive Into Memory Landscape

    World-renowned multidisciplinary artist Spencer Finch asks that question about four cities important to President Obama's story — Honolulu, Nairobi, Jakarta, and Chicago. 

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  • The Forum

    Memory Landscape is just one of several vibrant art pieces located in the Forum. Head to our new home for community and civic action featuring art pieces from Lindsay Adams, Tyanna J. Buie, and more. 

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