"SCARD" draws inspiration from the hauntingly famous photograph of Peter, also known as "Gordon", who escaped to join the Union Soldiers in 1863 from a Louisiana plantation. His photograph, taken along with other soldiers at the time, gained prominence due to the severe scarring on his back – a result of brutal whippings by his slave master or overseer. This photograph stands as a stark, visceral testament to the cruel treatment of slaves.
In "SCARD," I aim to encapsulate not just the physical scars of Peter's experience, but also the broader narrative of African American suffering under slavery. The painting employs meticulous strokes to replicate the texture of whip scars, creating a tangible sense of the brutality endured. The canvas is painted in shades of black and brown, symbolizing Peter's skin and, by extension, his journey and endurance.
This piece is a somber reflection on the inhumane treatment of slaves, a reminder of a dark period in history where human beings were subjected to unthinkable cruelty. Yet, within this painful context, there lies a story of resilience and survival. The fact that photographs like Peter's exist is a testament to the strength and perseverance of those who suffered yet managed to reach freedom. Their scars are not just marks of pain but symbols of survival and triumph over unimaginable adversity.
"SCARD" is not merely an artistic representation of historical suffering; it's a tribute to resilience and the human spirit's capacity to endure and overcome. It honors those who, like Peter, bore their scars as a testament to their journey towards freedom, ensuring their stories are remembered and told firsthand.
Mixed Medium on Canvas
36x24
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