Support Us Button Widget

Meet this Columbia-born artist with national recognition, Rodney McMillian.

Rodney McMillian now holds the keys to the city after being presented with them after the unveiling of his art at the Columbia Museum of Art

McMillian_Preferred Headshot_Photo courtesy of the artist and Kurimanzutto Mexico City Photo by Martha Reta.png

Meet Rodney McMillian. | Photo courtesy of the artist and Kurimanzutto Mexico City Photo by Martha Reta.

Table of Contents

The Contemporaries of the Columbia Museum of Art unveiled the latest art acquisitions by Rodney McMillian, a prominent Columbia-born artist now based in Los Angeles.

Fun fact — The Columbia Museum of Art is the first museum in SC to acquire McMillian’s work and this is the first time the Contemporaries have acquired two pieces at one time.

Rodney was also presented with a Key to the City of Columbia as well as a resolution from SC State House Representative Todd Rutherford.

Get to know Rodney

Rodney has made significant contributions to the world of art and culture. His artistic journey traverses an array of mediums.

Rodney’s art explores the complex and tension-filled intersections between history + present-day culture, uncovering the nuanced interplay between the two realms.

His work is showcased in esteemed public collections like the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, and more. He’s also the professor of sculpture and vice chair at the UCLA School of Arts and Architecture.

Both paintings will be on display beginning today in the CMA’s collection Gallery 20 and will remain on view through October.

More from COLAtoday
JerryFest returns to Five Points on Sunday, Oct. 5 with two stages of live music, food, art, and family fun.
A look at the 2025 Gamecock football season, including key players, biggest games, and what’s new on gameday at Williams-Brice.
The concept is taking over South Korea’s capital city. We’re thinking about where we’d copy it in Soda City.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Whether you’re interested in hearing from local business leaders, exploring the art world, or just hearing a good story, there’s a Cola podcast for you.
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date night in Soda City.
Unbury Columbia and Florence’s prehistoric past by looking at these five animals that once called the region home before they went extinct.
A European café–style brasserie and market is opening in Melrose Heights in 2026, with local roots.
Class is in session — become familiar with how Columbia’s City Council works, and explore your role as an active citizen.
This hurricane guide will help you prepare for the 2025 season, which is expected to produce above-normal storm activity in the Atlantic.