On SEEING, A Journal #550

ABOVE and BEYOND: An Interview with Spike Lee

November 14, 2023

We sent an invitation to Spike Lee asking him to participate in my project, “Above and Beyond, Extraordinary Individuals in Our Time, Portraits and Interviews.” I had begun this project a few years ago, but the Pandemic necessitated a pause, in March 2020.

He called: “Spike here! I’m in!”

A restart with Spike Lee is a magnificent gift.

Throughout his illustrious career, Spike Lee, a once-in-a-generation storyteller and filmmaker, has produced over three dozen films, both narrative and documentary, and countless award-winning commercials, achieving world-renowned acclaim and success.

We met in my studio to talk about his work, his life and the creative force
that propels him.

Spike showing me images from a large installation of objects drawn from his personal collection, “Spike Lee, Creative Sources”, currently showing at the Brooklyn Museum. This marvelous exhibition provides a glimpse into his world of passions and sources of inspiration that have fueled his creative output.

In more than 450 works he explores Black history and culture, Brooklyn, sports, music, cinema history, and family. Artworks by prominent Black American artists are displayed alongside instruments once owned by legendary musicians, as well as historical photographs, sports and movie memorabilia. They reveal the connections among the people, places, and ideas that have fueled his brilliant storytelling.

This is a shortened video of a wonderful interview:

In the few hours we spent I found Spike Lee kind, wise, warm and great fun.

Thanks for stopping in, Spike. Best of luck.