The concept of my project begins with a reference to the infamous photograph of a man named Gordon. This photo was used to bring awareness to the horrors of slavery for multiple campaigns against the confederacy. I drew this sketch of the shot I want to construct in which a modern African-American reveals the same keloid wounds on their own back, their eyes are hollow but blossom with flowers as they gaze back at the viewer.

I also wanted to explore how western societies have treated dark vs. light colored bodies by juxtaposing the Gordon-image with a smooth white greco-roman statue on the other side of the frame inspired by Giorgio de Chirico. You’ll notice in contrast to the dark man’s head, this white figure is missing half of his.

In general, I wanted to make a commentary on the oppression of African-Americans who continue to inherit and carry the wounds of every abused generation of their people and how these dark roots are inseparable from black art, expression and creativity. The song “Strange Fruit” sung by Nina Simone also inspired me with its haunting tone and similar theme. I wanted the final image to be striking in it’s disturbing nature and yet beautiful and thought-provoking. I used many adjustment layers to make the contrast between the subject matters pop. The keloids in the final image are directly from Gordon’s photograph.

I understand this is a very serious theme and subject. This project was intended to celebrate the beautiful expressions and insights Afro-descendants are able to create while still reminding the viewer that this is rooted in serious generational trauma.