“African American ,” serves as a visual response to James Baldwin’s profound statement: “To be African American is to be African without any memory, and American without any privilege.” Centered in the piece is the continent of Africa, boldly outlined and filled with the American flag’s colors—red, white, and blue.
However, the flag’s design is disrupted; instead of the iconic stars representing American states, the names of African Americans who have lost their lives to police brutality are inscribed in white against the blue field. Each name represents a life cut short, a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition.
The red stripes flow across the shape of Africa, symbolizing the blood and resilience that have defined the African American experience, while the white spaces speak to erased histories and cultural dislocation. The flag’s placement within Africa evokes a sense of displacement and connection, a dual identity shaped by heritage and hardship. This piece invites viewers to reflect on the layered identity of being African American and the weight of a history marked by both struggle and strength.
 
Each piece is made to order and different in its own way. The variety is found within the background of the image.
 
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