Unity

Artist Statement

This piece explores ideas of cultural representation in the world of history and art by depicting the complex relationship between traditional European works of art and the actual diversity of the real world. The first figure represents a classical Greek goddess. The latter symbolizes a woman in an outfit inspired by traditional Nigerian fashion. Both are set against a background influenced by those stereotypically seen in European Renaissance paintings. The piece aims to create a sense of coexistence between the two figures; their similar silhouettes suggest that they are not as different as we might assume. The image of a woman of an underrepresented ethnicity stands as an equal counterpart, challenging our traditional views of art and demonstrating the interdependence and unity of society today.