This Black History Month I had the delight and honour of sharing a platform with my son, Jonathan Rhamie (aka Jay Angelo), showcasing his amazing artwork to inspire a generation. (Notice that he’s wearing his own clothing line in the pic too).
Jonathan surprised me with this painting, entitled, “Blessed Be the Peacemakers” (if you zoom in you will see the heading). He said it was done in honour of his love for my work and what I have meant to him over the years. I am, to say the least, immensely touched, especially as he captures my own work as peacemaking.
You should recognise Malik el-Shabazz (aka Malcolm X) whispering into Muhammad Ali’s ear. Malcolm X was a mentor to Muhammad Ali. Hence, the art piece signifies the legacy of one generation mentoring the next, urging them to live their best lives by bringing freedom to their community. Freedom fighters as peacemakers!
What is particularly significant for me is the halo around both their heads. This is a signature of my son’s work – www.angelo7.com. The inspiration is taken from ancient Cushite/Ethiopian art, signifying that there is something honorific about the lives of the incumbents even though they are not perfect. In fact, ‘there is beauty and humility in imperfection’, and ‘imperfection is a form of freedom’.
The freedom we fight for in the work of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) is built on the shoulders of giants, imperfect giants. Although a piece on black masculinity, the portrait captures the dignity of black human imperfection as a canvas of excellence on which harmony, strength and community are built.
Tell me, what portrait of DEIB would reflect your work?