Joys of Yemonya

Date2003

MediumAcrylic and colored pencil on canvas

Dimensions36 × 36 in. (91.4 × 91.4 cm) Framed Size: 38 1/2 × 38 1/2 in. (97.8 × 97.8 cm)

Credit LineDC Commission on the Arts and Humanities Art Bank Collection

Object numberDCCAH2006.036

ClassificationsPaintings

Locations

Mayor's Office of Talent & Appointment (1350 Penn Ave NW,6th Fl)

Description“Joys of Yemonya” is a part of the Gemstones and Lace series of 10 paintings. After years of training in printmaking, I felt caged in by the elaborate processes and wanted to attempt a more immediate medium. I chose acrylic paint. This series was my first in this medium. The subject matter was Black girls. I sat in playgrounds and family gatherings memorized by the graceful, gestures, and the beauty, sassy, tenacious quality of the girls. In a society that continues to ignore and denigrate females with brown and black skin each of these girls stand as miracles, a testament to the power of their human spirits. Using photographs taken of friends and family, as inspiration. In 2004, this series was exhibited at the Capital Children's Museum and was the focus of delightful programming surrounding Black girls. Area schools brought scores of children to see the exhibition and partake in the activities offered by the museum.