This work depicts a young artist in the natural environment of his studio, looking directly at the viewer. Rendered with careful attention to raking light and anatomical accuracy, this work creates a visual poetry that is deeply attuned to the beauty of nature. The portrait captures the intelligence and confidence the young artist exudes. He is classically balanced between one of his works—the result of his effort—and his palette, a tool that must be fused with his mind and intent to create. These two objects have shaped his early life and helped him recognize his intelligence and develop his confidence.
This piece connects to the long tradition of artists capturing their own likeness, but it also contributes to a growing legacy of self-portraits that help tell the story of an African American realist artist in the 21st century—and, hopefully, inspire future Black realist artists for generations to come.
